The Studio at The Exchange

The Studio sits in a building connected to the historic Tobacco and Mule Exchange in downtown Apex. Its services are a short, focused menu of hair services for both men and women, with a barbershop for men that offers cuts, shaves and grooming products.

The salon works with independent providers, each of whom sets their own prices, skills and specialties. Some services and payments are settled directly with the provider once the appointment is complete, so clients may pay the provider directly for those visits.

The Exchange Barbershop and Lounge is the men's side of the space. It offers classic cuts, current trends, waxing and custom grey blending, and includes a private bar, heated barber chairs, flat-screen TVs and neck massages. The business describes this area as an upscale, comfortable and masculine setting.

The Studio also carries Deep River Estates, a skin care line it sells as made with natural and organic ingredients. Guests can also sit down for herbal teas and honey while they learn about medicinal herbs. A cocktail lounge serves local beers, wines and cocktails, and there is outside seating.

Booking and payment rules are straightforward. Clients are asked to arrive 15 minutes early, since late arrivals do not get extra treatment time and are charged the full service fee. A credit card on file is required to reserve, and cancelling with 24 hours notice carries no charge. A same-day cancellation may be charged up to 50 percent of the scheduled services unless the slot is filled, and a no-call, no-show may be charged the same amount. A 3.5 percent service fee applies to services paid by major credit card, and cash and checks are also accepted. Quoted prices exclude gratuities and may change, and groups of five or more have an 18 percent gratuity added, with group discounts possibly available.

Gift cards must be presented at the time of service and cannot be redeemed for cash. According to the salon, they lose 10 percent of their original value each month beginning one year after purchase, and they expire after three years.

The salon keeps its services simple and pairs its product line with an education-minded touch, offering herbal teas and honey while guests learn about medicinal herbs.

Exposed beams, ceilings and wooden floors sit alongside a blend of historic and modern furnishings in a Mediterranean-influenced style.