Meet Olha Kotsiubailo | Hair colorist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Olha Kotsiubailo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Olha, let’s talk legacy – what do you want yours to be?
I don’t know how my future will unfold, where I’ll live, or what I’ll be doing in ten or twenty years. But if I think about legacy—about what will remain after I’m gone—I don’t just want to be remembered as the owner of successful salons or a great stylist.

I want my name to be associated with the courage to change one’s life, with a love for beauty—not just in the external sense, but in something deeper. I want to be the person who proved that even when it feels like everything is against you—circumstances, people, reality—you can still create something of your own, something special.

I started from scratch, building my first salon in Kyiv, investing not just money but my soul into it. Then came Los Angeles—a challenge, a risk, a whole new world where I had to start over again. It wasn’t easy, but I don’t fear difficulties. On the contrary, they make me stronger.

My legacy is not just the spaces I’ve created but also the people I’ve taught, the ones I’ve helped feel confident in themselves, those I’ve inspired to keep going.

I want to be remembered as a woman who wasn’t afraid of change, who wasn’t tied to one place but followed her calling.

I don’t know where I’ll be in a few years—maybe in another country, maybe back in Ukraine. But I do know for sure that I will leave behind more than just a business—I will leave a story that might inspire someone else to take a bold step into the unknown.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Space26 isn’t just a salon—it’s a reflection of my journey, my passion, and my vision for what beauty should be. When I first started in the industry, I knew I wanted to create something different, something that wasn’t just about hair, but about an experience. My goal was to build a space where people feel seen, heard, and transformed—not just externally, but internally as well.

Opening my first salon in Kyiv was a milestone, but the real challenge came when I had to start over in Los Angeles. Moving to a new country, especially during a time of uncertainty, was both terrifying and exciting. I didn’t just bring my skills with me; I brought my philosophy, my standards, and the essence of what made Space26 unique.

What Sets Space26 Apart

What makes my salons different isn’t just the techniques we use or the services we offer—it’s the atmosphere, the attention to detail, and the way we connect with clients. At Space26, we focus on personalized experiences, ensuring every person who walks in leaves feeling more confident and empowered.

We don’t follow trends blindly; we set new standards by blending artistry with precision. Education and growth are a huge part of our culture. My team is constantly learning, evolving, and perfecting their craft because in this industry, stagnation isn’t an option.

The Challenges and Lessons Along the Way

Building a business from scratch, especially in a foreign country, is never easy. There were countless obstacles—navigating new regulations, building a clientele from zero, and facing unexpected challenges like losing team members who left to start their own businesses. But every setback taught me something valuable.

I learned that resilience is everything. No matter how talented or passionate you are, success requires persistence and the ability to adapt. I also realized that the right team is the foundation of everything. A business can only grow when the people within it share the same vision and values.

What I Want the World to Know About Space26

Space26 is more than just a salon—it’s a place where creativity meets precision, where clients feel truly cared for, and where professionals are given the tools and support to grow. It’s a brand built on passion, on a commitment to excellence, and on the belief that beauty is a powerful force that can transform lives.

My journey wasn’t easy, but I wouldn’t change a thing. Every challenge, every risk, and every hard-earned success has shaped Space26 into what it is today. And this is just the beginning.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting LA, I’d want to show them the city the way I see it—beyond the typical tourist attractions. LA is a mix of energy, beauty, and hidden gems, so I’d plan the perfect balance of great food, iconic sights, and laid-back vibes.
Classic LA & Sunset Views, Beach Day & Relaxation, Arts & Culture, Coastal Drive & Farewell Brunch. This would be the perfect mix of LA’s best food, nature, culture, and city energy. A week wouldn’t be enough, but it would definitely make for an unforgettable trip!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
If I had to dedicate my shoutout to someone, it would undoubtedly be my family. They have always believed in me, even when my dreams seemed risky or uncertain. Their unwavering support, love, and encouragement gave me the strength to take bold steps—whether it was opening my first salon in Kyiv or starting over in Los Angeles.

Through every challenge, they reminded me of who I am and what I’m capable of. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. My journey is mine, but their belief in me has been the foundation that made it all possible.

Website: https://www.instagram.com/spacela.beautystudio?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olgacolorist?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@olgacolorist?_t=ZT-8tWCrVRua9W&_r=1