A bar in a salon: Junction offers Brazlian blowouts and drinks

A bar in the middle of a salon. When you walk into The Junction Salon that is the first thing you notice – a full bar sitting a mere few feet away from the pedicure stations. 

A cocktail and a mani/pedi isn't a new concept, but Junction is more than just a salon bar. Offering a range of men's services inside their rustic warehouse location has helped make it a spot for couples. 

Owner Kym Ferguson said couples often come in together, sometimes for pedicures. 

"Then, they sit at the bar and have a drink," Ferguson said. 

Junction doesn't feel like a traditional salon. The open-space feels more like a bar, which is fitting since it used to be the Union bar and still hosts private parties, events and live music after-hours. The switch is convenient. The salon station mirrors are removable and the color mixing station even converts into a DJ booth. 

Ferguson opened the business in February. Having previously worked with Primp Salon Bar, another local salon offering cocktails, wine and beer, she knew the concept would work. However, she was interested in expanding on the salon bar idea. She contacted the owners of the Union to see if they would be interested in selling the space or sharing it. 

Since the salon's hours are different from the nightlife hours, the two entered into a partnership. 

Now, the place hosts Shellac manicures and Brazilian blowouts by day and parties at night. They even had a recent celebrity visit. Singer-songwriter Gavin DeGraw dropped by a few hours before his show at the Raleigh Amphitheater. He dined at nearby Tuscan Blue and even dropped by Junction to take photos with the staff. 

Junction is located in the Raleigh Depot. They are open Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays.