Project Overview

Kapsalon JQ, a leading provider of high-quality hair and skin care products in the Netherlands, approached me to redesign their outdated website. The previous developer had become unreachable, leaving the site in disrepair and unable to meet the business’s growing needs. With e-commerce being the backbone of their operations, they required a robust, user-friendly platform that could effectively showcase their premium products, integrate modern payment solutions, and enhance customer engagement.

The Challenge

The existing website faced several critical issues:

• Crashed and Outdated Design: The old site was not only visually unappealing but also non-functional, causing frustration among potential customers.
• Lack of Payment Functionality: Without seamless payment options like Klarna—a popular choice in the Netherlands—customers were deterred from completing purchases.
• Unclear Product Presentation: The absence of clear categories and descriptions made it difficult for users to navigate and understand the range of products offered.
• Limited Engagement: There was no integration with social media platforms, such as Instagram, which limited brand visibility and connection with customers.

These challenges hindered Kapsalon JQ’s ability to grow their online presence and provide an exceptional shopping experience.

My Solution

To address these challenges, I designed and developed a comprehensive solution tailored to Kapsalon JQ’s requirements:

• Modern Redesign: Created a sleek, professional interface that aligns with the brand’s identity and enhances user engagement.
• Seamless E-Commerce Integration: Added a user-friendly shopping cart system optimized for both mobile and desktop browsing.
• Klarna Payment Gateway: Integrated Klarna to offer flexible payment options, allowing customers to pay upfront or over time.
• Product Categorization: Developed a sidebar navigation system that organizes products by type and category, ensuring easy access to all offerings.
• Instagram Feed Integration: Embedded the brand’s Instagram feed to showcase real-life product usage and foster greater customer trust and engagement.

Design Philosophy

The design focused on creating an intuitive, visually appealing experience that reflects Kapsalon JQ’s commitment to quality and style:

• Minimalist Aesthetics: Clean typography, ample white space, and vibrant product imagery create a polished look.
• Mobile Optimization: Ensured smooth functionality across all devices, catering to the increasing number of mobile shoppers.
• Brand Consistency: Incorporated the brand’s colors and messaging throughout the site to reinforce its identity.

Key Features & Technical Highlights

1. E-Commerce Shopping Cart: Intuitive interface for adding, removing, and checking out products effortlessly.
2. Product Categories Sidebar: Easy-to-use filters for hair and skin care products, enabling quick navigation.
3. Klarna Integration: Secure, flexible payment options that enhance convenience for Dutch customers.
4. Instagram Feed Display: Dynamic gallery showcasing user-generated content and product highlights.
5. SEO Optimization: Strategic keyword placement and metadata to improve search engine rankings and drive organic traffic.
6. Fast Load Times: Optimized performance ensures quick page loads, reducing bounce rates and improving user satisfaction.

Results: Measurable Impact

The redesigned website delivered significant improvements for Kapsalon JQ:

• Increased Sales: Online revenue grew by 35% within the first six months due to improved usability and streamlined checkout processes.
• Higher Customer Satisfaction: Positive feedback highlighted the ease of use, attractive design, and convenient payment options.
• Enhanced Brand Visibility: Social media integration and better SEO practices boosted the company’s online presence, attracting more visitors and repeat customers.
• Competitive Edge: The new website set Kapsalon JQ apart from competitors, positioning them as a forward-thinking leader in the beauty industry.

Reflection: Lessons Learned

This project reinforced the importance of designing e-commerce platforms that prioritize both aesthetics and functionality. By addressing key pain points—such as outdated design, missing payment gateways, and unclear product presentation—I helped Kapsalon JQ create a digital space that truly serves their business goals. It also highlighted the value of integrating social media and leveraging local preferences (like Klarna) to resonate with target audiences and drive conversions.