Salon Soap is a shining example of a Dundas West daytime hangout spot, save for the fact that it’s a business centred around hair.

The long and narrow space seems stark. Its white walls, dark floors, and five monochromatic stations are as straightforward as a salon can get. But, the buzz of welcoming chitchat, element of dog-friendliness, and local art hanging on the walls makes Soap far from basic.

Hip, young things snip/dye away at their clientele while a different dog each day trots around, looking for a free set of hands to rub his or her belly.

Corin Berry, the owner, has been doing hair for over 15 years. With plenty of experience working in salons across the country (and a handful of Toronto locations), she decided that no hair shop truly embodied her idea of a perfect vibe. So, like any millennial woman, she started one of her own.

Sitting in a Soap chair, I found out exactly what Corin meant by “perfect vibe.” Not only are the hairdressers talented (each one has their own thing going on in the creative styling sphere), but they’re laid-back.

Because the salon intends to remain boutique, nobody’s rushing to get your time slot over with to fit another appointment.

There’s even a back patio in case you really want to chill. I, myself, have scheduled a root touch up with Ali Harcourt only to leave with an entire colour refresh, cut, and brow bleach to match.

As somebody who’s changed hairdressers like clothes, it’s a relief to finally settle down with one who knows what I like and how my hair behaves.

It’s also refreshing to be included in conversations across the entire room, like a clubhouse for fabulous haired humans only. Plus, they allow (read: encourage) clients to bring their dogs.

Soap hopes to help local artists grow their passions as well. New work will go up on the walls every couple of months and an opening event will go with it.