A local entrepreneur is bringing a new salon to a Whitehaven neighborhood, helping to further its revitalization.
EDGE awarded James Cook a $16,000 ICED Loan to renovate the existing space and open Nubian Design at 1237 Marlin Road, just steps from other ICED Loan recipients Eggxactly Breakfast & Deli and Muggin’ Coffeehouse. The salon will provide space for six stylists, creating six new jobs in a professional salon setting. The location is uniquely situated and can attract both neighborhood residents and nearby business professionals.
Cook has a long resume that includes running several local Lenny’s restaurants and acting at Hattiloo Theater. Cook’s brother, Marcus Snipes, is an experienced barber who will manage the location.
The ICED Loan will help Cook to renovate the 2,074 square foot space originally built in 1954, add a roof update the parking lot and add ADA accessibility. The project is supported by the Greater Whitehaven Economic Redevelopment Corporation.