In 1984 a dream became reality. A place where anyone who wanted or needed expert hair and skin care would feel welcome and comfortable. Much planning, discussion and luck was needed to establish a relaxed, unintimidating and fun atmosphere. At the beginning Strands was in a small suite in a heritage building in Gastown, the historic district of Vancouver. The location
proved to be a perfect fit for years of innovation to come. The introduction of the imaging computer system made it necessary to expand and with luck the suite next door became
available.
In the 1980, the need to complement the international product lines that Strands carries, gave birth to the first hair care line developed exclusively for Strands. Simple, basic, easy to use and effective products became a Strands mantra. Ever expanding and evolving, the hair care lines have been joined by skin care, body care, aromatherapy (essential oils) and cosmetics exclusive to Strands.
The interest in aromatherapy led to a broader education and the development of natural hair treatments. An invitation from a hair care company in Toulouse, France, and the university there, strengthened the commitment to further research the possibility of natural, healthier products.
Around the same time a developing sensitivity to products containing ammonia put the existence of Strands in jeopardy. However, research and luck intervened and from then on Strands is an ammonia-free salon. Ever evolving and changing the Strands dream has lost nothing of its intrigue, excitement and fun.
Travel to international hair shows in Europe and the North America brought exciting new inventions like electric scissors with 
heated cutting blades, to Strands. Veletheraphia or the art of singeing split ends was also added to the unique array of services at the salon. Around the year 2000 Strands launched a website; all the products in the salon could now be ordered online and shipped to people’s homes.
In the winter of 2019 Covid and its restrictions hit hard. Closed for two-and-half months and then reopening under severe restrictions was a challenge. At the end of 2019 health problems laid Urs up for 8 months. With the unwavering help of great friends and clients the shop was able to survive.
In the winter of 2022/23 Strands went through another great reinvention. Not willing to retire, Urs decided to relocate the salon, the only move since Strands’ inception in 1984. With renewed energy, innovative new services and products that are vegan, natural, herbal and/or carbon neutral, there is little slowing Urs down.