Shorewood has a new barber shop, and it's not at all what you might expect. Located at 4423 N. Oakland Ave., The Men's Room Barber Shop is the newest addition to the growing number of male specific salons opening in the Milwaukee area. But don't look for the familiar rotating red and white candy cane striped barber poll -- there's none of those here. This is a barber shop for the 21st century.

The Men's Room takes barbering to a new level by providing a modern, comfortable atmosphere where men can feel comfortable.

"A lot of men don't feel comfortable walking into a traditional salon to get a hair cut," says Trish McCormick, one of The Men's Room's two owners. According to Trish, the new shop specializes in contemporary male barbering, which is much different than what you might see in a traditional salon.

If the name itself doesn't tell you that this place is all for guys, the pictograph of male symbol you find on the door of a public restroom should be your second big clue. You definitely feel like you are walking into a space designed for the contemporary male when you first enter The Men's Room. The first thing that catches your attention is the hardwood floors and two large black leather couches that just call your name to take a load off. Once seated you will notice an unapologetically male magazine selection. No Elle or Martha Stewart here, guys. And there is always a bowl of snacks to munch on while you wait.

The haircut experience at The Men's Room is one to be relished. Unlike a traditional barber shop or local Supercuts that can have you sporting the latest buzz cut in a matter of minutes, Trish and the rest of the staff at The Men's Room try hard to make the whole experience relaxing and enjoyable. Of course you pay a little more than you would at Supercuts, about $30, but it is well worth the few extra bucks.

In today's hectic lifestyles of the busy man the 45 minutes at The Men's Room can be nearly as rejuvinating as a trip to the Spa for a good rub down.

Both Trish and Zig Krumins, the other owner, spent more than a month overseeing the conversion of the space from a now-closed salon into the finished product you see today. According to Zig, most of the work was done by them, save the heating and plumbing.

If the shop's steady stream of customers is any indication, Trish and Zig have succeeded in creating a space that is comfortable and inviting, and is sure to make them a fixture on Oakland Ave. for some time to come. For more information, visit their Web site at www.mensroombarbershop.com or call them at 414-961-9019.