Stepping into Architect Hair Design, a wagging bushy tail emerges from a dimly lit corner. The fluffy Australian Shepherd initiates a warm welcome before settling at his owner’s feet as he carefully crafts a pompadour cut on a heavily bearded client. Reminiscent of a 1965 lodge tavern; Architect's gas lift bar stools are occupied by patrons tapping their toes to Gordon Lightfoot, leaning on a polished wood bar, happily sipping pints while waiting for their turn in the big chair.
Time moves slowly at Architect Hair Design, and owner Peter Mokrycke, wouldn’t want it any other way. After a hasty experience at a local unisex salon, Peter felt inspired to refashion the traditional barber shop – just like the good old days. But for this Hamilton millennial, the classic barbershop vibe was a nostalgia that could only be imagined through films.
“I was always envious of the barbershops in the movies," Peter says. "I wanted to recreate a comfortable, social environment, a place that felt more meaningful than just a haircut."
