Richie Araish, Toronto hairstylist and hair extension specialist, seated in a salon studio

WHO I AM

Hair has always been more than just a service to me.

It’s a craft, a conversation, and a way to help people feel like the best version of themselves.

I’m a Toronto-based hairstylist with over 12 years behind the chair, specializing in custom colour and premium hair extensions. Over the years, I’ve built my career around creating hair that feels intentional, natural, and completely tailored to the person wearing it. I never want hair to feel one-size-fits-all or trend-chasing. It should feel balanced, wearable, and like it actually fits your life.

I’m also an educator with Great Lengths Canada, which has given me the opportunity to travel across the country teaching stylists the art and science behind extension work. Education has become such a natural part of who I am, and it constantly keeps me learning, refining my eye, and deepening the way I approach my work behind the chair.

While I’m known for brighter blondes and transformative extension work, my skill set goes far beyond that. From seamless colour to haircuts with shape, movement, and structure, I approach every service with a strong technical foundation and a lot of intention. I really believe that understanding hair properly is what allows me to create something that not only looks beautiful, but actually works for you.

Behind the chair, I care just as much about the experience as I do the final result. Great hair matters, obviously, but so does feeling comfortable, understood, and taken care of throughout the process. For me, that connection and trust is just as important as the hair itself.

Soft dimensional blonde hair colour with long layers styled by Toronto hairstylist Richie Araish

my MISSION

My mission is simple: to create thoughtful, customized hair that enhances each client’s natural features while maintaining the health and integrity of their hair. Every appointment is approached with intention, expertise, and a commitment to delivering results that feel effortless, personal, and long lasting.

Modern salon styling station at Private Studio in downtown Toronto
Private Studio salon cape detail in Toronto hair studio
Luxury salon shampoo area and product display at Private Studio in Toronto
Warm detail of salon refreshment area and lighting at Private Studio Toronto

The STUDIO

Located in Toronto’s Fashion District, my chair is based inside Private Studio, a modern and thoughtfully designed space that feels calm, elevated, and intentionally personal.

The studio offers a more private, one-on-one salon experience where the focus stays on you and your hair. It’s a relaxed environment designed to feel comfortable, welcoming, and removed from the noise of a traditional salon floor.

Richie Araish in his Toronto hair studio at Private Studio

When I’m not behind the chair or teaching, I’m usually on the go. Between work, travel, and life, I keep a pretty full pace, but I genuinely love it that way. I’m big on experiences, whether that’s a concert, a trip with friends, or just getting out and enjoying life outside the salon.

And when I need to recharge, I slow it right down. Time at home, being around family, and hanging out with Chloe, my French bulldog, is usually what brings me back to centre.

Beyond the chair