It may not be Ice Cube's Barbershop, but there is a definite buzz of laughter and friendly chatter at Starr Cuts on Reid Street.

The hair salon, close to Chopsticks, opened its doors this summer and has steadily been picking up customers.

Twin brothers Nikai and Nikco Albuoy saw an advertisement for a retail space in the city and decided to go into business together.

They had ideas of what they wanted to achieve, and that included installing plasma TV screens for customers so they could enjoy entertainment, such as movies, videos or Playstation games, either while waiting for their haircut or as they are being seen.

"We're entrepreneur and we were looking to see what makes money," said Nikai.

The hair shop was previously a nursery, but is now has a spacious wooden floor, three barber's stations and four strategically positioned plasma screens.

Nikco said the plasma screens were an idea they came up with as they were fitting out the shop. "We wanted to have a nice place where people could feel comfortable," he said.

"The feedback has been really good and the business is picking up. The hardest thing has been getting the name out there and getting people to know about it."

Starr Cuts is now doing a good trade in men's hair cuts, but the brothers would like to introduce women's hair styling to the business as well. There will also be a hair washing facility installed soon allowing customers to get a hair cut and wash at the same time.

Commenting on the ambience of the place, Nikai said: "We like the conversation and the laughs you get in a barber shop. People come in and play on the Playstation."

Both brothers say setting up the business was a good move and they are now looking to see what opportunities they can take to expand.

The barber shop is open Tuesday to Saturday, and also takes appointments for Sundays.