Since 1958, the Eastown Barbershop has been a familiar place for men of all ages and has since become a landmark of the Forest City. Casa London met with the owner, Kim Ziegner, to talk about the shop and its role in the growing barber culture.
Casa London: How did you get started in Barbering?
K: The barbershop has been in my family since 1979. Several years ago, the business became too much for my Uncle to handle due to health concerns. At the time, I owned a learning centre but decided to help out at the shop. I had some salon experience and I had also previously completed a hairstyling program; however, I had little experience in men’s hair and had a crash course in barbering from Alex, my uncle’s 82 year old colleague. Two years ago, I took a chance and bought the business from my Uncle.
Casa London: What would you say the main difference between hairstyling and barbering is?
K: Speaking from experience, men go to a barbershop for a good haircut at a reasonable price. They aren’t looking for all the extras offered in Salons. Barbershops also have a relaxed atmosphere where men can be themselves and feel comfortable. Haircuts are generally more laidback and easygoing. We also operate the shop on a walk in only basis so no appointments, just like a classic barbershop.
Casa London: The shop has a very cool, retro vibe. What inspired you to create
this type of atmosphere?
K: I randomly
walked into a barbershop in Toronto called The Crow’s Nest three years ago. It has a similar vibe and made a big impression on me. I wanted my shop to be a cool and interesting place to visit. Another barbering inspiration for me has been Schorem, an old school men’s only shop in the Netherlands. They specialize in classic men’s haircuts such as pompadours, slickbacks and flattops. The Schorem master barbers teach these techniques in their “Old School Academy” where I took an Advanced Barbering Course. During my time in the Netherlands I learned their style of cutting hair. Schorem is an iconic shop that stays true to the authentic barbering experience and I wanted to emulate that authenticity with Eastown.
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Eastown Barbershop is one of the few shops in the city to use straight razor and offer hot towel shaves