notjust

Is hairdressing a cultural activity? I found myself asking this on the way to notjust, the youngest men’s hairdressers in the city, who boast that they’re doing something different for barbering.

It seems like a very utilitarian activity, and for many men, all they think they need is a grade-one razor cut all over and they’re on their way. But today, men’s style is developing faster than ever. Tattoo art has absolutely taken over, and there’s no reason why the art of hairdressing can’t do just as well alongside it.

It’s the experience that adds to the value of a proper haircut

notjust was set up by Nathan Haley and Tom Burbidge, two creative and business-minded young barbers with backgrounds in fashion and fine art, respectively. It’s got proper Northern Quarter cool – with no visual branding on the outside, you enter through a simple unmarked door in the Hope Studios art complex on Newton Street.

Once inside, it’s a real haven. Despite being only a small space, it’s light and open, with a sofa and armchair for waiting, and a warm, welcoming ambience. Espresso on the table and an ambient curated playlist, it’s the experience that adds to the value of a proper haircut – ensuring everything from the moment you walk in to when you leave pleasurable.

At notjust, they really know what they’re talking about, but there’s no bad attitude. I went in with an idea of what I normally asked for at the barber (grade-two around the back and sides and about half the length on the top), as well as the kind of problems I’ve had with previous cuts and parts of my hair that seem to grow abnormally.

What I got was a great result – based loosely on my previous requests, but modified to both look far better straight out of the shop, and finished in a way that would grow out to look and feel more normal and controlled.

What I got was a great result – based loosely on my previous requests, but modified to both look far better

You get all the luxury extras too – a cut-throat neck shave, as well as cologne and use of their own range of styling products. Their services also include a full ‘beard perfect’ and the full hot towel shave and massage.

Those interested in the best haircuts can take advantage of notjust’s membership options, offering a haircut fortnightly or monthly at prices that save you up to three months’ fees.

Quietly and competently, the boys at notjust have carved out a solid reputation for artful haircutting and incredible results

Their success has been so evident they’re soon to upsize to larger premises not far from their current Newton Street location, which will give them the opportunity to bring on more hairdressing talent and further exercise their creative skills.

Quietly and competently, the boys at notjust have carved out a solid reputation for artful haircutting and incredible results. There’s no branding, no song-and-dance – but seriously good, friendly work. For those looking for the finest and most stylish results, your time at notjust will be well worth it.