Get a nautical cut at pool-themed Birds Barbershop

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Voted best "Best Barbershop" by the Austin Chronicle for the past 11 years, Birds Barbershop has chosen Houston as the first city outside of its home market for expansion. The newest Birds Barbershop in the heart of the Historical Heights is the ninth shop for the company.

What was previously a laundromat at 420 E. 20th Street has now been transformed into a cool space where men, women and kids can not only walk in for high-quality, affordable cuts, but also experience a little fun too. Customers can enjoy classic arcade style video games, listen to curated mixtape soundtracks and even enjoy free Shiner Beer while they get their new 'do.

"Houston is Austin's backyard," said co-founder Jayson Rapaport. "After a decade in business, we've watched many of our customers graduate to a life in Texas' most cosmopolitan seaport. Houston is a cultural capital on the rise and we wanted to be here sooner than later."

For the company's first Houston location, the teamed looked to community swimming pools for design inspiration. Birds Heights has a sunny interior featuring civic blues of patio tile, pennant flags, a seven-foot circular window and other nautical designs throughout. They even incorporated the vintage letters from the previous washateria, displaying them on the wall of the shampoo area.

"What makes me feel the best is when I walk in and I see my mom next to a guy getting a mohawk, next to a kid getting his first haircut," said co-founder Michael Portman. "We are bringing a customer-focused experience to all people who are looking for affordable, quality haircuts."