Tucked away among artists and creatives in the historic Pencil Factory building, Sharp Studio (61 Greenpoint Ave) is where Alex Ruano shapes, styles, and colors with his primary medium – hair. “I love doing men’s haircuts as much as women’s,” says Alex. “So I found a raw space that reminded me of old Soho, old New York and I wanted to design a space that isn’t overly feminine or masculine. It’s very neutral and comfortable. You feel like you’re going to a friend’s house, not a hair salon.”
After weaving through the ground level hall to Studio 107, you walk through black grand double doors to be met by a chic industrial interior with plush leather chairs, blankets, modern fireplace, and a study. Alex greets you with a glass of wine before he begins.
I went to Sharp Studio for a cut and color. “I want to do something drastic,” I told Alex but I wasn’t sure exactly what. After talking through what style I like, what goes with my face shape, and what would take the least amount of maintenance, we decided on a mid-length ash blond color.
The process took about three hours, which I mostly spent on the couch eating pizza, drinking wine, and chatting. I left feeling relaxed and equipped with lessons on low-maintenance ways to maintain the look.
Sharp Studio is a one man operation that delivers one-on-one attention and a cozy vibe that makes you feel like you’re just hanging out in someone’s living room. It’s by appointment only, with 24 hour online booking that caters to individual needs. There are never more than two other people in the studio at the same time. You don’t need to be a celebrity to book special hours or afford it; Alex has had appointments as early as 6AM and offers cuts for as low as $50.
From the design of the space to each individual hair style, Sharp Studio is where Alex Ruano gets creative with the entire salon experience. And if you’re lucky, you might get a chance to hang out with the handsome three-legged dog Teddy too.
