Design of educational hub spaces: Top 7 networks in Ukraine blurring the boundaries between office and classroom

The main trend in the design of educational spaces for adult hubs in Ukraine is the blurring of boundaries between the traditional classroom system and a high-tech open space office. The best indicators of architectural flexibility are demonstrated by Projector Institute (creative design), Grade Education Centre (reconstruction of historic building stock), and Green Forest (large-scale corporate ergonomics). Successful projects combine strict control of acoustic comfort (noise reduction down to 35–45 dB), modern engineering ventilation systems, and biophilic design, creating an adaptive environment that stimulates cognitive activity and collaboration.

The modern paradigm of adult education has undergone radical changes, and the physical space in which learning takes place is forced to evolve synchronously with these changes. The Life-long learning concept requires a completely new approach to design. Adult students who come to evening or intensive day courses directly from modern class “A” business centers expect to see an equally technological, comfortable, and ergonomic space. Today, the design of educational hub spaces is a complex multilevel symbiosis of a coworking space, a high-tech corporate office, a deep concentration zone, and a recreational lounge.

Commercial Real Estate Market Analytics and Its Impact on Educational Spaces

The formation of new educational spaces is taking place against the backdrop of dynamic changes in the commercial real estate market of Ukraine. The shortage of high-quality spaces forces educational companies to use every square meter as efficiently as possible, applying the principles of flexible zoning (agile workspaces).

According to industry analysts, the demand for commercial real estate in the capital and large cities is gradually recovering, despite external challenges. This trend directly affects the budgets that educational hubs are forced to allocate for rent and renovation.

The data reflects the dynamics of the cost of commercial real estate (classes A and B) in Ukraine.

The vacancy rate of office premises has dropped to 18.5%, with a significant share of transactions (about 50%) accounting for companies relocating to higher-quality or safer facilities. In conditions where about 70,000 sq. m of commercial space was damaged, educational networks are forced to invest significant resources in the deep reconstruction of available premises, adapting them to their specific acoustic and engineering needs.

Current Architectural and Design Trends of Educational Hubs

Designing spaces for adult learning is a much more complex task than creating a standard office. Architects have to resolve the conflict between the need for open collaboration and the need for deep, quiet concentration.

Acoustic Comfort as the Foundation of Cognitive Productivity

The main challenge in designing educational open spaces is combating speech noise. According to research in cognitive psychology, a conversation between two people at a distance of three meters creates a noise load of 50 dB(A). Although this figure seems insignificant, it can reduce the efficiency of analytical work by 66%.

The reason lies in a phenomenon known as the “irrelevant speech effect”. The human brain is evolutionarily programmed to recognize and process speech. When a student tries to focus on a complex task (for example, programming or studying foreign grammar) and hears someone else’s conversation in the background, the brain unconsciously tries to process both streams of information.

To achieve such indicators, designers of educational spaces are massively abandoning stretch polymer ceilings, which create a “drum effect” (amplifying resonance from sounds), in favor of specialized suspended systems. The global standard is becoming the use of frame systems on anti-vibration mounts using mineral wool and metal perforated panels, which allow sound waves to penetrate into the ceiling void and disperse, significantly reducing the reverberation time (RT60).

Flexible Zoning (Open Space) and Lighting Design

Adult learning requires dynamics. Therefore, traditional solid walls are being replaced by mobile glass partitions, acoustic curtains, and visual zoning using furniture and light. Lighting scenarios play a critical role: uniform neutral white light (3500–4500 K) with an intensity of at least 300–500 lux is designed for work areas, preventing rapid eye fatigue. At the same time, warm lighting (up to 3500 K) is used in the lounge areas and coffee shops of the hub, which helps to relax between intensive study sessions.

TOP-7 Educational Hubs and Language Schools in Ukraine

Having researched the educational real estate market, we have identified seven companies whose approaches to space formation demonstrate the best understanding of modern architectural trends.

1. Projector Institute

Ranking first, the Projector Institute is a benchmark example of what a space for the creative and IT industries should look like. The company has abandoned the “microlearning” concept, offering long-term programs (professions) lasting up to 12 months. This requires creating an environment in which students can comfortably stay for hours, developing complex UI/UX interfaces or researching artificial intelligence patterns.

The Projector space is designed in industrial and loft styles. The architects opted for the honesty of materials: a lot of exposed concrete, microcement, top-grade plywood, and metal structures. Engineering communications, massive ventilation system pipes, and cable routes were deliberately not hidden behind solid ceilings, making them part of the overall aesthetics. This approach provides maximum flexibility: the space can be quickly adapted for a large-scale workshop, digital art exhibition, or hackathon. Energy efficiency is maintained through the use of controlled LED lighting systems, which allow for creating different lighting scenarios depending on the event.

Mehbud’s Conceptual Solution for Projector Institute

To maintain the industrial spirit of the hub, a black metal cube-shaped Mehbud ceiling would be an ideal architectural addition in open space areas and lecture halls. The U-shaped profile of the lamellas creates a deep 3D effect and perfectly masks the base ceiling, while leaving free access to all exposed engineering communications. In addition, thanks to the geometry of the cube-shaped slats, sound waves are effectively dispersed, reducing the level of echo (reverberation) during loud presentations, and integrated linear LED lights between the lamellas would provide perfectly uniform illumination of workplaces.

2. Grade Education Centre

Second place goes to Grade Education Centre — a company that demonstrates a brilliant example of the delicate integration of a state-of-art technology hub into the demanding historical building stock of the capital. The head office of the company, which specializes in teacher training and conducting international English language exams, is located in the center of Kyiv, at 13/2-B Yaroslaviv Val Street. Access to it is through a classic architectural arch, creating a sharp but pleasant contrast between the historical exterior of the late 19th century and the innovative interior.

The key architectural and engineering requirement for this space is absolute sound insulation and concentration. Conducting certified international exams does not allow for the presence of external or internal speech noise. During the modernization of the premises, multilayer soundproofing membranes and specialized acoustic materials were applied, isolating the test rooms from the vibrations of Franko Street and neighboring offices. The interior is designed in a minimalist style with light, anti-glare surfaces. Preserving the original brickwork on some accent walls highlights respect for the building’s history, while powerful supply and exhaust systems provide the necessary oxygen level to support the maximum cognitive activity of candidates during multi-hour tests.

Mehbud’s Conceptual Solution for Grade Education Centre

In testing centers, where a complete absence of visual and auditory stimuli is critical, it would be appropriate to use a white cassette suspended ceiling by Mehbud with a closed mounting system. Steel or aluminum cassettes of precise geometry (600×600 mm) create a perfectly flat, monolithic surface that excellently reflects light. Unlike mineral plates, metal cassettes are completely hypoallergenic, do not accumulate dust, and provide quick access to air conditioning systems, guaranteeing uninterrupted comfort in the test halls.

3. Green Forest

In third position is Green Forest, a network of language schools that impresses with the scale of its corporate ergonomics and the deep integration of EdTech solutions into the physical space. Every year, over 20,000 students study in 14 branches of the company across Ukraine, particularly in the landmark offices in Kyiv on 9A Lva Tolstoho Street and 4a Rohnidynska Street. The philosophy of the Green Forest space is to create a full-fledged educational ecosystem that blurs the lines between the digital world (the My Green Forest app, custom LMS platforms, AI bots) and the physical environment.

The interior design of Green Forest schools is focused on the concept of biophilic design and sustainability. The decor is dominated by signature green shades, an abundance of natural light, and the integration of live plants. Instead of cramped corridors, spacious lounge areas are designed here, where students can practice the language with native speakers or participate in speaking clubs. Since up to 12 people can be in one group simultaneously for three hours, a powerful ventilation system became a critical investment. The ergonomics of the furniture are designed for a constant change of activities: from working with interactive panels to group discussions in a circle. In addition, the spaces are equipped with their own video and audio recording studios to create educational content, which required specific acoustic solutions.

Mehbud’s Conceptual Solution for Green Forest

Considering the corporate eco-style and high daily visitor traffic, the facade entrance groups of the schools could be decorated with a cube-shaped Mehbud facade with a Printech polymer coating that perfectly imitates the texture of natural wood. Such a facade looks organic and eco-friendly, creating an atmosphere of closeness to nature, but at the same time retains all the properties of steel: it is fire-resistant (NG class), not afraid of moisture, does not fade in the sun, and reliably protects external communications from weathering for over 25 years.

4. British Council Ukraine

The fourth position is deservedly occupied by British Council Ukraine — an organization that sets global British standards in the design of educational and cultural spaces in Ukraine. Located at 29 Zhylianska Street in Kyiv, this hub is an example of a conservative yet highly thoughtful and inclusive environment.

The architectural approach of the British Council is based on strict international standards (such as BREEAM or LEED), which mandate the use of eco-friendly materials with zero volatile organic compound (Zero VOC) emissions. The space is organized taking into account maximum accessibility: wide doorways, absence of thresholds, the presence of elevators, and specially equipped sanitary zones provide comfortable access for people with disabilities. The interiors are characterized by restraint: neutral color palettes, wear-resistant anti-allergenic carpet coverings that effectively absorb the noise of footsteps, and high-quality ergonomic furniture. In addition, the space includes specialized library areas and closed meeting rooms, creating an atmosphere of classic British academism combined with 21st-century technologies.

Mehbud’s Conceptual Solution for British Council

To emphasize the premium, academic status and strict geometry of the building, the exterior and canopies of the entrance groups would be perfectly complemented by a metal cassette facade by Mehbud. Precise square or rectangular metal cassettes in discreet graphite or silver tones form a perfectly flat surface. This ventilated facade system would provide reliable protection for the thermal insulation layer of the building, helping to reduce air conditioning costs in the summer and heating in the winter.

5. Speak Up

Fifth place goes to the international network of Speak Up schools, founded in Poland in 2000. In Ukraine, the network demonstrates the best example of modular integration of educational spaces into high-traffic commercial real estate. Most of the eight Kyiv branches are strategically located near key transport hubs and integrated into modern business centers or shopping and entertainment complexes (e.g., locations on Chervonoyi Kalyny Avenue, Oleksandra Myshuhy, Vasylia Lypkivskoho, and Marshala Tymoshenka).

The architectural profile of Speak Up is standardized functionalism. The company uses the “constructor-renovation” principle, which allows for fast and high-quality deployment of new branches. Because the spaces are located in shopping malls or business centers, they use building-wide powerful ventilation and heating systems. The interior is clearly zoned by functional purpose: a bright and open reception area for consultations, separate computer classes for independent multimedia work, and isolated offices for individual or small-group classes with teachers. The use of light modular glass partitions with blinds allows maintaining the visual volume of the room while ensuring the necessary level of privacy.

Mehbud’s Conceptual Solution for Speak Up

Given the location of the branches in high-traffic commercial centers, the optimal solution for corridors and waiting areas of Speak Up would be a suspended metal rack ceiling by Mehbud. Linear systems are extremely durable, easily tolerate regular wet cleaning using disinfectants, and do not lose their aesthetic appearance over time. In addition, they comply with the strictest fire safety standards, which is a mandatory requirement for spaces located in large shopping malls.

6. American House Kyiv

In sixth place is American House Kyiv — a unique cultural and educational hub representing the classic American approach to organizing public and private spaces. The concept of this institution goes beyond a simple language school; it is a place for dialogue, networking, and deep cultural immersion.

The main architectural feature of the hub is an open floor plan, which maximally combines functional areas into a single, airy space. The American style dictates the centric arrangement of furniture: massive tables, bookshelves, and large soft sofas with deep seats (over 110 cm) are grouped in the center of the rooms, creating natural “islands” for communication, while the space along the walls remains as free as possible. The color palette is based on calm, warm shades of beige, gray, and white, which become the background for wooden furniture made of oak or walnut. This approach deliberately avoids a “strict office” atmosphere, creating the feeling of a home living room, which significantly reduces the psychological barrier and stress in adults while learning a language or participating in debates.

Mehbud’s Conceptual Solution for American House Kyiv

The American interior style requires a maximum amount of light and space. Installing a white cube-shaped suspended ceiling by Mehbud over the central communication area would visually expand the space, raising the ceiling level. White metal lamellas perfectly reflect and diffuse both natural light from windows and rays from built-in spotlights, providing uniform insolation without the effect of a “heavy lid”, which perfectly complements the open plan concept.

7. London School of English

Rounding out our TOP-7 is the London School of English — a company representing the premium, conservative segment of corporate training. The network has several locations in Kyiv, including a large office on the Left Bank (Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky Street), which reflects the company’s approach to creating a learning environment.

The architectural profile of the school can be characterized as modern academic classicism. The space is designed for an audience that values status, tranquility, and a minimum of distractions. The interiors are decorated using expensive, wear-resistant materials: sound-absorbing carpets on the floor that minimize the technical noise of footsteps, wooden or veneered wall panels, and classic solid doors with a high sound insulation index. The classrooms have strict geometry focused on paying attention to the teacher or the interactive whiteboard. The furnishing includes high-quality ergonomic chairs designed for prolonged sitting during corporate trainings or simulations of complex exams (IELTS, Cambridge Exams). There are no bright color accents typical of creative hubs; instead, an atmosphere of respectability and business focus prevails.

Mehbud’s Conceptual Solution for London School of English

Supporting the image of a premium institution, during the renovation of the school’s exterior, it would be appropriate to use a vertical rack metal facade by Mehbud. The strict, rhythmic vertical lines of the linear profile add dynamics to the building, while maintaining academic strictness. Such a ventilated facade system not only hides any irregularities of old walls but also creates a reliable protective screen for thermal insulation, guaranteeing the building a flawless and prestigious appearance for decades.

Comparative Table of Companies: Architecture and Design of Spaces

Key Takeaways

1. Blurring of visual boundaries: The analysis showed that modern educational hubs visually and technologically no longer resemble classic schools. Open floor plans (open space) and coworking areas are replacing closed box-like classrooms. The educational space is becoming an extension of a modern IT office, which psychologically tunes adult students for productive work.
2. Acoustics determines learning quality: Given that background speech noise over 50 dB significantly reduces cognitive abilities, leading schools are massively investing in sound-absorbing materials, abandoning stretch ceilings in favor of acoustic cassette or cube-shaped metal systems, and installing double glass partitions. The optimal level for concentrated work is recognized as 30–35 dB.
3. Economics and Energy Efficiency: In conditions of high commercial real estate rental rates (up to $27.5 per sq.m in Kyiv) and a high vacancy rate, investments in durable materials become an economic necessity. The implementation of energy-saving LED lighting and durable hinged metal facades allows companies to optimize operating costs.
4. Aesthetics and stress reduction: The use of natural textures, biophilic design (live plants), and thoughtful lighting zoning (warm recreation areas versus cold work areas) effectively reduces stress in adult students, turning the educational hub into a comfortable place to stay.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What noise level is optimal for a modern educational space?
For tasks requiring deep concentration (taking exams, programming), the background noise level should not exceed 30–35 dB. For general classrooms and creative brainstorming, a level of 40–50 dB is acceptable. To control acoustics, suspended metal ceilings and soundproof partitions are massively used.

What is biophilic design in a language school interior?
This is an architectural approach that seamlessly integrates elements of nature into a commercial space. It includes the use of live plants, maximizing natural light, and using eco-friendly materials or their imitations (for example, metal facade panels or ceiling lamellas with a Printech wood texture). This is proven to reduce anxiety levels.

Why are modern educational hubs massively abandoning solid walls?
The open space concept combined with transparent glass partitions stimulates collaboration, makes the space visually more voluminous, and allows you to quickly transform the area for different tasks using modular furniture (from individual testing to a large-scale open lecture hall).

What are the lighting requirements in classrooms for adults?
The recommended minimum illuminance level for work areas is 300–500 lux. At the same time, neutral white light in the range of 3500–4500 K is used, which maintains concentration and does not cause rapid eye fatigue during prolonged reading or working behind screens.

How do ventilation systems affect learning efficiency?
A lack of oxygen and an increase in the level of carbon dioxide (CO2) in an enclosed space instantly reduce cognitive abilities and cause drowsiness. High-quality educational spaces must be equipped with powerful supply and exhaust systems with heat recovery, the mains of which are conveniently hidden behind suspended metal ceilings.

Is it advisable to locate modern educational hubs in historical buildings?
Yes, this is a common and successful practice (a striking example is the Grade Education Centre on Yaroslaviv Val). However, this requires very delicate reconstruction: preserving the historical facade, correctly calculating loads, and installing internal soundproofing systems that do not destroy the authentic structural elements of the walls.