Inside the Yorkshire nail salon offering 360 gel polish shades
By Jess Watts | 11 April 2026 | Techs & Salons
From summerhouse to salon, Michelle Swain‘s garden nail studio proves that the best workplaces are sometimes closer to home than you think…
Castleford-based Michelle began her nail career as a part-time mobile tech, however after her services were affected by the Covid lockdown, she decided to open a salon in her garden.
“The process of putting up the summerhouse to opening it took around six months,” Michelle says. “We experienced a lot of problems, including a leaky roof that could only be fixed with a durable rubberised roof material called EDPM.”
However, Michelle pushed through the challenges and opened her salon, The Yorkshire Nail Shed, which is now thriving. The rapid growth of her client base has allowed the pro to transition to being a full-time nail tech.
A converted wooden summerhouse, The Yorkshire Nail Shed boasts a ‘Scandinavian feel’, with clean lines and a colour scheme of terracotta, cream and white with hints of gold. “I love a natural theme, and I wanted to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere,” Michelle comments.
In addition to the relaxing décor, Michelle notes that home comforts are always available: “Tea and coffee is on tap, and often a biscuit, whilst clients choose from the 360 gel polish shades available.”
Michelle uses Halo gel polish products, and has earned status as a Halo VIP. “The brand’s products are fabulous and have great coverage,” she shares.
The salon owner also uses products from Navy Professional, Katie Barnes Tool Range, Nails Luxe and Glossify. “Nailcare products used in the studio include Navy Professional Cuticle Balm, and I stock the brand’s Hand & Cuticle Serum for clients to purchase,” Michelle notes.
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With an artistic background, Michelle embraces her Surface Pattern Design degree when perfecting nail art. “I tend to think ‘outside the box’ where nail art is concerned,” she says. “All the art that I produce is completed by hand.”
Her clients travel from a multitude of places to experience her services, but the nail tech notes that most come from the estate near her home in Whitwood: “I have a lot of clients that come from the estate, meaning it’s easily accessible in lunch hours and after work.”
Michelle’s clients aren’t the only ones who relish the experience of The Yorkshire Nail Shed, as she admits: “I miss the salon when I’m not in it.” As for convenience, the garden salon setup could not be more ideal for Michelle. “I pop in for lunch, check on my dogs or pop some washing on,” she says with a smile.
The future looks bright for The Yorkshire Nail Shed, with Michelle sharing her main goal: “I want to continue providing a place where my clients feel comfortable and happy, and leave with a smile and great set of nails.”
Follow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook.
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