September 10, 2026
As an established commercial general contractor, our success is usually measured by strict deliverables: architectural plans approved, timelines met, and passing final building inspections. We spend months behind the scenes handling the technical complexities of commercial tenant improvements (TI)—navigating code requirements, installing intricate plumbing networks, and upgrading electrical grids. Once the final sweep is completed, handing over the keys can sometimes feel like just another checkbox. But this summer, our team at Highline Construction had the rare, deeply rewarding privilege of seeing one of our recently completed commercial buildouts truly come to life.
In June, our crew officially wrapped up a comprehensive commercial salon remodel for the highly anticipated second location of Salon Bellissima. Following the incredible success of their flagship salon in Bellingham, WA, this brand-new Ferndale, WA expansion allows them to bring their luxury services further into Whatcom County. To celebrate the successful completion of the commercial remodel project, salon owner Nicci Lyn Troupe generously hosted an intimate, private “Kid’s Cuts” event. This exclusive afternoon was held entirely for some very special guests – Highline Construction team members’ kiddos and their friends.
This commercial tenant improvement project was extra close to our hearts because Nicci Lyn Troupe is a repeat client. When we first partnered with her to build out Salon Bellissima’s original location in Bellingham, WA, she was new to business, and so were we. In the decade-plus since then, while we’ve been growing Highline Construction into an award-winning construction company, Nicci Lyn has been racking up awards for Salon Bellissima too. Both Highline Construction and Salon Bellissima are proud, repeat winners of Bellingham Alive’s Best of the Northwest awards.
Located in an old brick building right on the corner of Main Street and 3rd Avenue in Ferndale, WA, the space possessed incredible character but required some troubleshooting, such as plumbing modifications to accommodate shampoo bowls.
A big part of the building’s charm comes from its super high ceilings and beautiful, towering windows that flood the space with natural light. Our goal as the commercial general contractor was to honor the historic architecture, and create a modern, open-concept salon layout.
Because Salon Bellissima is a certified, sustainable Green Circle Salon, repurposing materials as part of this commercial property remodel was important to Nicci. Her husband built the reception desk himself with repurposed lumber from a local dairy farm in Lynden, WA.
While we always take pride in the quality execution of our construction projects, the true test of any commercial construction project is how it handles real-world use.
Because the event was private, the afternoon had a deeply personal, VIP feel. The sleek, modern waiting area—originally envisioned for adults sipping organic herbal tea or espresso while listening to ambient music—served as a relaxed, peaceful backdrop. Sunlight streamed through the dramatic windows looking out to downtown Ferndale, casting a warm glow over the quiet space as the kids were welcomed by the stylists.
It was rewarding for our commercial project manager to see his daughters engage with the stylists while he and his wife took a moment to stand back and watch the space function exactly as designed. The durable and smooth concrete floors made sweeping up the small piles of hair easy for the stylists. The acoustic ceiling tiles installed high overhead did their job perfectly, anchoring the quiet hum of blow dryers and keeping the atmosphere feeling cozy and relaxed.
The stylists at Salon Bellissima showed exactly why they are an award-winning Best of the Northwest team. They treated the children like absolute royalty, taking their time to turn what can sometimes be an intimidating experience into a fun, personalized afternoon. The kids walked out bouncing with confidence.
“We like community. It is more about the people we are serving than their hair.”
~Nicci Lyn Troupe, CEO and Owner of Salon Bellissima
As a premiere commercial contractor in Whatcom County, we build the brick-and-mortar locations where communities gather to shop, eat, and work. Events like this one remind us of the human side of the commercial construction industry. We don't just build physical walls; we build the backdrops where local businesses thrive, where families connect, and where lifelong memories are made.
Seeing our team's kids spinning around in those styling chairs, laughing with the stylists, and admiring their new haircuts in the mirrors our crew carefully mounted, was the absolute best project testimonial we could ever ask for.
We want to extend our deepest, most sincere gratitude to Nicci Lyn Troupe and her incredible team at Salon Bellissima. Thank you for opening your gorgeous new doors to our families, for your incredible hospitality, and for giving our kids such an unforgettable, confidence-boosting experience. It is always an honor for Highline Construction to partner with visionary business owners who care as much about environmental stewardship, green building practices, and community impact as they do about flawless style and luxury service.
Salon Bellissima’s new location in Ferndale, WA is absolutely breathtaking, the styling team is exceptionally talented, and our entire company is incredibly proud to have laid the foundation for the salon’s continued growth and success through this commercial remodel.
Planning a commercial tenant improvement project or new commercial build in the Pacific Northwest? At Highline Construction, our team has the architectural, project management, and building experience needed to transform your vision for your commercial property into a highly functional, beautifully crafted business environment tailored to your brand.
– Matt Whitten, Bellingham, WA