From ultra-long, adorned with gemstones and piercings, to coffin-shaped or tapered squares – next-level nails have become a must-have accessory. (Remember Hailey Bieber's delish glazed donut manicure this summer?)
Now, thanks to Milano Nail Spa – The Heights, Houstonians can get their sets at the largest nail salon in Texas (and possibly, the whole country).
Located in the Lower Heights mixed-used district just west of downtown, Milano Nail Spa's recent expansion now spans a whopping 10,000 square feet. Guests shouldn't have long to wait for service — especially at lunch: the lounge boasts 100 spa chairs, 110 technicians, and 20 receptionists (bye bye, long hold times).
With a slogan that reminds, “A girl without beautiful nails is like a night without stars,” the salon boasts a dazzling array of services. Look for more than 20 types of manicures — including every type of artificial nail, unique options like glow-in-the-dark colors, mood change powder, and one-of-a-kind nail art.
Clients can also treat themselves to a pedicure, waxing, or eyelash extensions.
Milano’s Texas-sized Heights salon marks the 50th location for self-made millionaire Tom Tran, who came to the U.S. from Vietnam in 1990 and opened his first salon without any experience just five years later.
On-trend and always watching TikTok, Instagram, and celebrity nail art, Tran ensures his salons keep up with the current trends. Complimentary cocktails, a vibrant atmosphere full of gorgeous Insta-worthy moments, and trendsetting services are all part of Tran’s successful business model. He and his team will even supply tasty treats like charcuterie boards and more for birthdays, special events, and even as a surprise for customers.
Tran’s clearly found the formula for success: between his Milano and Nails of America brands – he looks to gross around $12 million in 2023. For a little comparison, Houston is currently home to approximately 5,000 nail salons with average gross revenues of about $300,000.
Not afraid to spend on his locales, Tran invests around $1 million for each of his locations. But for the Heights, a spokesperson tells CultureMap Tran dropped around $2 million to create the biggest nail salon in the U.S.
Revered in many circles for the opportunities he has given fellow immigrants during his decades-long career, Tran has his sights set on expansion beyond the Lone Star State. He aims to open between 10 to 20 salons annually in the Southwest, including Colorado, Phoenix, and Arizona.
“I’m very proud of this moment, and not only for this beautiful salon but also the opportunities that the nail industry has created for so many people in this country — a high percentage from Vietnam like me,” Tran noted in a statement. “Nail technicians can often be the focus of jokes and stereotypes, but this business is proving over and over that it can be a path of success for talented, hard-working people.”
With 10,000 square feet of space, on-point looks, and a booming biz, there’s no doubt that this mani-pedi palace deserves all the gloss it’s getting.
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Milano Nail Salon – The Heights, 2799 Katy Fwy, Ste. 130. Hours are Monday-Saturday 9 am to 7 pm; Sunday 10 am to 6 pm.
