Headquarters Madison on 1633 Thierer Road isn’t your father’s barbershop.
Instead of vinyl chairs, warm lighting, vintage decor and a swirling red-white-and-blue-striped pole — all hallmarks of the “traditional” American barbershop — this east side barbershop is minimalist and modern, with a black-and-white color palette with gold accents.
Ryan “RJ” Connor opened Headquarters in March 2024. In May, the 27-year-old won Barber Grammys “Rookie of the Year,” an international award recognizing early-career barbers who have made a significant contribution to the industry or their community.
His shop, which has 10 barbers and a stylist, demonstrates a cultural shift. For men, haircuts have long been viewed as perfunctory…