Meet Your Neighbour: Studio 164
Take a step into Studio 164 in Collingwood Downtown and not only are you entering a salon that offers a full array of hair care and barber services for the whole family at very reasonable price points, you’re also stepping into a time machine. Owner, Vina Pepin has amassed a collection of barbershop antiques that date as far back as the late 1800’s.
Vina, a professional hair stylist, moved to Collingwood in 2016 after absolutely falling in love with the town on a weekend getaway. “For me there was no looking back. I went home to Bradford, listed my house for sale, moved to Collingwood and rented a chair in an existing salon for four years before taking over the business in 2022 and launching Studio 164,” Vina recalls. “I couldn’t ask for a better place to run a business, the people here are all so friendly and we have such a beautiful downtown. I’m so lucky to have such a great team, besides myself; we also have Tiffeny, my colour queen and Claudio our barber. Collectively we offer over 90 years of experience to this community,” continues Vina.
An avid collector of all things antique related to her industry, Vina started collecting in the 1980’s and proudly points out that they use a National cash register and an antique phone, both from the 1920’s in the shop. The barber chair in the window dates back to 1888 and the walls and shelves are dotted with over 100 antiques including a barber pole painted blue and white that was discovered inside the walls of University of Toronto during a renovation.
A brand new addition to Studio 164 is their café in the back of the studio. “We’re very proud of this…it’s brand new and we just finished installing everything. It’s really nice to be able to offer our clients a place where they can enjoy their favourite beverage or catch the game…anything to make their visit more enjoyable and comfortable,” remarks Claudio.
The next time you’re in need of a shave or a haircut or perhaps a whole new look, check out Studio 164 at 164 Hurontario Street in Collingwood Downtown. Follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/people/Studio-164-Hair-Salon or Instagram at www.instagram.com/studio164collingwood/