Kiev L'oreal Academy / m2r

Kiev L'oreal Academy / m2r - Chair, WindowsKiev L'oreal Academy / m2r - Image 3 of 15Kiev L'oreal Academy / m2r - Table, Chair, Windows, BeamKiev L'oreal Academy / m2r - ChairKiev L'oreal Academy / m2r - More Images+ 10

  • Architects: m2r
  • Year Completion year of this architecture project Year:  2008

Text description provided by the architects. L'Oreal's history in Kiev/Ukraine

The L'Oreal Group has been present in Ukraine since 2003 - first as a Representative Office, then in 2005 as a full Subsidiary of the L'Oreal Group worldwide. The company has grown quite considerably - where in 2003 there were less than 10 employees, today the company employs over 150 people throughout the country.

Kiev L'oreal Academy / m2r - Table, Windows, Chair

Academy's functions

The main purpose of the Academy is to do trainings for our hairdressing clients - most seminars involve a theoretical "classroom" style training, followed by a practical "hands-on" segment where the clients can actually practice applying hair color to models under the supervision of one of our trainers. The multi-functional aspect of the Academy allows us to perform two different seminars simultaneously. The Academy can also be used for larger seminars of 50-75 people of a "look and learn" format. Finally, the room can be completely opened up to host public-relations events, fashion shows, and product launches.

Kiev L'oreal Academy / m2r - Image 14 of 15

The design

When we from m2r first saw the space, we instantly saw the potential in the multi-functionality of the room. We decided to leave the concrete foundation of the room exposed, while using contrasting materials such as glass, stainless steel, and Corian to give the Academy its polished feel. We wanted it to be a place of inspiration, but also a place where people felt they can work and learn in a relaxed environment - therefore we decided to leave many of the ventilation shafts exposed, as well as the racks for the lighting, which give the impression of a loft apartment, or a fashion show stage setup. 

Kiev L'oreal Academy / m2r - Image 3 of 15

Because of the south-facing of the windows, there is a lot of natural light coming into the room - very important when looking at hair once hair color has been applied. To take further advantage of the light, we decided to use mirrors on the walls and in the wet-room (where the washbasins are located); in the end this gives the impression of the entire room being much bigger than the 234 sqm would appear to be.

Kiev L'oreal Academy / m2r - Chair, Table, Windows

Project gallery

See allShow less

Project location

Address:Kiev, Kyiv city, Ukraine

Click to open map
Location to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.
About this office
Cite: "Kiev L'oreal Academy / m2r" 17 Feb 2009. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/14141/kiev-loreal-academy-m2r> ISSN 0719-8884

Kiev L'oreal Academy

You've started following your first account!

Did you know?

You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.