Swans Studios

Swans Studios is a collective of Master Stylists that manage their independent businesses under one roof. The location is in the courtyard of Swan’s Market in beautiful Old Oakland.

Suzanne Van Houten is the owner of Swans Studios. She has had a long and successful career as a professional stylist and salon owner. After selling her well-established and award-winning salon, she was inspired to create a salon that allowed her to continue her career as a stylist without managing others. Suzanne modeled her space to function like Swan’s Market, in which each business has their own enclosed space that operates independently inside of a single market hall.

This concept is unlike most salons. Traditionally, stylists rent a salon station in an open setting. At Swans Studios, each stylist has her own private studio that operates as a boutique salon. Swans Studios is a multicultural salon with highly educated and experienced stylists that have several specialties. In addition to Suzanne, two full-time stylists and one part-time stylists share the space in Swans Studios. Those stylists are Latasha, Diane, and Ginger.

Suzanne is a Vidal Sassoon Trained Master Stylist and Certified Framesi Hair Color Educator. She is also a Silver Specialist, which means she specializes in helping women transition from color dyed to silver hair in a way that is aesthetically pleasing. You can learn more about Suzanne’s services on her website.

Latasha is the owner of Hairapy Sessions. She is a Deva certified stylist and a master with curly hair. Are you looking for a “hairapist” that knows the ins and outs of naturally curly hair care? If so, Latasha is your girl! Check out her website to view her portfolio and to book an appointment.

Diane has over a decade of experience in the hair industry. She specializes in curly hair and is also an amazing colorist that is educated in popular techniques including balayage and ombré highlights. To see her work and to make an appointment, visit her website.

Ginger is a freelance hairstylist and makeup artist that has over 20 years of experience in the industry. She is an advanced Deva specialist and loves to work with all hair types. She primarily works in San Francisco and brings her talents to Swans Studios part-time. You can find examples of her work on Facebook and Instagram @glgstylist.

Don’t forget to say hello to the salon pup, Never. You can find her lounging in Suzanne’s studio if she hasn’t already made a point to greet you upon entry. To get to the studio, it is easiest to take BART or AC Transit and walk from the 12th Street transit stop. There is also metered street parking in the neighborhood. Swan’s Market has several bike racks, so riding your bike is also a great option.