We’re continuing to spotlight the brilliant craftspeople who are bringing the vision for our flagship salon to life. This week we’re chatting with David Moneypenny of Qualis, the incredibly skilled team tasked with fitting out CULt’s first space. 

Hello David - before we delve into all things Qualis - tell us about your career prior to forming the company? 

Before establishing Qualis, my business partner and I were involved in various roles within the construction and fit-out industry, focusing on both large-scale commercial and residential projects. Our combined experience in project management and technical roles laid the groundwork for launching our own business.

How did your prior experiences influence the inception of Qualis?

Our previous experiences highlighted the need for a company emphasising high quality and client satisfaction. The name Qualis reflects our commitment to maintaining exceptional standards in every project, embodying the principles we wanted our company to uphold.

Qualis operates across various sectors, including large and small-scale commercial and residential. Is this intentional diversification, or do you have a particular preference for a certain sector? 

Our approach to operating across different sectors is deliberate and strategic. This diversification allows us to apply our expertise to various projects and adapt to varied client needs. We value projects that challenge us and showcase our versatility, though we are committed to delivering high-quality work across all sectors.

Having completed several salon projects, what unique considerations must you bear in mind when fitting out spaces specifically tailored for beauty salons?

Fitting out salons involves focusing on both aesthetics and functionality. We aim to create inviting, efficient spaces that reflect the salon’s brand while ensuring practical aspects such as workflow and equipment placement are well considered.

The CULt. brand exudes a strong identity, and Brett is dedicated to achieving exceptional results within budget constraints. What would be your advice on keeping the balance between impeccable quality finishes whilst retaining an eye on the budget?

Maintaining a balance between quality and budget is crucial. My advice is to engage in value engineering—identifying cost-effective solutions without compromising quality. Clear communication with clients about their priorities and involving them in decision-making helps manage this balance effectively.

What aspects of this particular project have ignited your inspiration and challenger spirit?

The high-end nature of this salon project is particularly stimulating. It offers an opportunity to deliver a space that is both luxurious and functional, pushing us to innovate and meet high expectations.

What aspects of projects like this one do you find most fulfilling? Is it the transformation from initial concept to completion, the collaborative process of assembling and managing a team, or the hands-on work at the construction site?

The most fulfilling aspect is witnessing the transformation from initial concept to the completed project. The process of seeing a project evolve, while collaborating with a dedicated team and managing all the details, provides a significant sense of accomplishment.

How do you envision this salon project leaving a lasting impression on its clientele?

I envision the salon making a lasting impression through its elegant design and practical functionality. The aim is for clients to experience a sense of luxury and comfort that reflects the high standards and attention to detail invested in the project.

The contemporary architecture of this unit presents both opportunities and challenges. How does the modern volume of the space influence the construction process, and what adjustments are necessary to navigate these aspects effectively?

The space provides exciting design opportunities but also presents challenges such as acoustics and lighting. We address these by carefully planning the layout and integrating solutions that enhance both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the space.