About Us
Located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, Ikigai Barbers is where great hair begins. From sharp skin fades to bold transformations, we offer expert barbering tailored to your unique style.
With over a decade of experience in barbering, styling, and hair care, our award-winning team specialises in both Asian and Western hairstyles, ensuring every cut is crafted with precision and attention to detail.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a complimentary drink while we bring your vision to life. We don’t just cut hair, we create styles that elevate your look and boost your confidence.
Because a great haircut doesn’t just change your appearance - it changes how you feel. Discover your ikigai with us today.
Darren
Darren, a dedicated barber with 6 years of experience, known for his unique cutting system that ensures consistent, quality haircuts.
His journey in barbering began in high school with creative hair experiments, leading him to Barber School and further refining his skills through various workshops and learning from seasoned barbers.
Darren's approach is personalized and relaxing, often leaving clients so at ease they drift off in his chair. His greatest joy comes from seeing clients' satisfied reactions to their new haircuts. Aspiring to open his own barbershop, Darren envisions a space that blends a fun, open atmosphere with professional service, a testament to his commitment to excellence in barbering at Ikigai Barbers.
Dre
Dre’s foundation in barbering began early—cutting hair in his father’s barbershop in England from the age of 15. After the shop closed, he set off across Asia, eventually arriving in Australia in 2017, carrying with him both heritage and ambition. His path has been shaped by diverse cultural exposure and a curiosity for mastering all hair types and styles. In 2020, the global pause brought him back to the UK, where he trained under renowned barber Dino. That mentorship redefined Dre’s approach, refining his craft into a blend of traditional discipline and contemporary precision. Now at Ikigai, Dre brings depth, experience and a sharp creative edge to every cut.
Anna
Anna's journey into barbering was fueled by local admiration, attracting clients from afar. With 7 years of experience, including 5 in hairdressing and 2 specializing in barbering in Japan, Anna excels in precision, especially scissor cuts and fades.
Her training took her to Japan for basics and advanced skills under master barber Sam. Anna combines formal education with salon and barbershop experience.
Anna's strength lies in personalization, crafting the perfect haircut for each client based on their unique features. Her greatest satisfaction is boosting clients' confidence and happiness.
When you choose Anna, you're choosing a passionate, skilled barber dedicated to making you look and feel your best.
Chris
Chris's journey into barbering may have been accidental, but it was the joy of connecting with people that inspired him to pursue this profession. With years of experience, Chris specializes in skin fades and scissor cuts, continuously perfecting his craft, his exceptional skills, attention to detail, and genuine interest in his clients make him an invaluable part of our team.
What Chris loves most about being a barber is the genuine connection he forms with his clients. Through conversations and banter, he creates a comfortable environment where stories are shared and laughter is abundant.
Sam
Sam, the founder and executive barber of Ikigai Barbers, brings over two decades of comprehensive experience to our esteemed clientele. With a deep expertise in both Asian and Western hairstyling, Sam has not only perfected the art of hair but has also dedicated himself to educating upcoming barbers, sharing his passion and knowledge to shape the future of barbering.
Known for his meticulous attention to detail and his charismatic, engaging personality, Sam ensures every client leaves feeling confident and uplifted. His commitment to excellence and education has positioned him as a pillar of the barbering community.
Discover the difference with Sam at Ikigai Barbers, where you'll experience more than just a haircut—you'll witness the art of hair crafted by a master stylist and educator.
