Top-10 of Ukraine: Architectural Masterpieces and Construction Innovations in Electronics Retail 2025

Introduction: Evolution of the Architectural Landscape of Ukrainian Tech Retail

The architecture of Ukrainian retail over the past two decades has undergone an evolutionary transformation comparable to the technological leap from analog communication to 5G. The mobile phone sales and communication services sector, which in the early 2000s was associated primarily with chaotic construction of small architectural forms (MAFs) and spontaneous markets, today serves as one of the main drivers of qualitative changes in the urban environment. Flagship stores of operators and tech retailers in 2024-2025 are becoming not just points of sale, but multifunctional public spaces that form the visual code of modern Ukrainian cities – from Kyiv to Odesa, from Lviv to Kharkiv.

Modern design of financial and telecommunications institutions plays a critical role in shaping consumer trust. In the era of digitalization, when physical contact with a brand is minimized, architecture becomes a key communication channel. Facade transparency, barrier-free entrance groups, use of ecological materials – all this translates values of openness, accessibility and business responsibility. The physical space of the store transforms into a “third place” – a space between home and work, where the client receives an emotional experience of interaction with technologies.

The role of innovative construction solutions in this process cannot be overestimated. Ukrainian companies face unique challenges: the need for rapid reconstruction of premises in historical centers, compliance with strict energy efficiency standards in conditions of unstable energy supply, and ensuring visitor safety. This stimulates demand for advanced engineering solutions: ventilated facades, light metal structures, energy-saving glazing and recuperation systems. An important aspect is also inclusiveness – compliance with new State Building Codes (DBN V.2.2-40:2018), which makes architecture accessible to people with limited mobility.

In this report, we will conduct an in-depth analysis of the architectural and construction strategies of ten leading market players. We will examine how industry leaders integrate their facilities into the urban context, which materials they choose to create durable and aesthetic spaces, and how the products of the national manufacturer “Mehbud” can become a tool for achieving new heights in design and construction.

№1 – Kyivstar: Architecture of a Barrier-Free Future

Architectural Profile: Transformation on a National Scale

The company “Kyivstar”, being a leader in Ukraine’s telecommunications market, sets the tone not only in technologies, but also in corporate architecture. The company’s headquarters in Kyiv is a model of revitalization of a Soviet-era administrative building into a modern class “A” business hub. The architectural concept is based on the “Simply Digital” philosophy, which provides for maximum simplification of the customer journey through physical space.

The network of Kyivstar branded stores has undergone several rebranding stages, the latest of which focuses on creating open, light-filled spaces. The rejection of massive partitions in favor of zoning through light and floor textures allowed visual expansion of even small street retail premises. Facade solutions for stores are characterized by laconicism: large display windows, minimalist signs with backlight illumination, and the use of the signature blue color as an accent rather than a dominant.

A feature of the architectural strategy is adaptability. Special formats of signs and facades have been developed for the historic centers of Lviv and Odesa, which do not violate the architectural ensemble, using neutral colors and materials that harmonize with historic buildings.

Construction Achievements and Engineering

Kyivstar’s construction department manages hundreds of real estate objects, including not only stores, but also technological sites and data processing centers (DPC).

A key construction challenge is ensuring a stable microclimate in server rooms and stores with large amounts of working electronics. Precision air conditioners and ventilation systems with heat recovery are used. In premises reconstruction, “dry construction” technologies are actively used, which allows reducing repair times to 3-4 weeks.

Design Features

The interior of Kyivstar stores is based on the principles of biophilic design in techno-interpretation. The use of natural wood or its quality imitations combined with cold white light and metal surfaces creates a balance between coziness and technology.

1. Lighting: Scenario lighting allows changing the atmosphere in the store depending on the time of day.
2. Furniture: Modular structures that allow transforming the waiting area into a lecture hall.
3. Acoustics: Use of acoustic panels on the ceiling to reduce noise in consultation zones.

Conceptual Design Mehbud for Kyivstar

Visualization of Innovations: To emphasize Kyivstar’s technological leadership, the Mehbud plant offers a comprehensive solution for facades and interiors.

1. Facade System: Use of cassette system “Mehbud 3D” in signature shades of blue and white. Volumetric cassettes create a dynamic facade pattern that changes depending on the angle of sunlight, metaphorically reflecting the flow of digital data. Anti-corrosion coating guarantees preservation of facade aesthetics for 20+ years even in conditions of high pollution in large cities.
2. Ceiling Solutions: In interiors, the use of cube-shaped slats of various profile heights is proposed. This will allow hiding numerous communications (cables, ventilation) while providing easy access to them for maintenance. Alternating slats with integrated LED lights will create a “digital sky” effect.
3. Technical Enclosures: For protection of base stations and generators located near offices and stores, the ideal solution is the “Exclusive Blinds” system. It provides necessary equipment ventilation due to the angle of the slats, while completely hiding it from passersby and protecting it from vandalism.

№2 – Vodafone Ukraine: European Pragmatism and Red Code

Architectural Profile: Standardization and Recognition

Vodafone Ukraine, as part of a global brand (before ownership transfer), implemented strict European retail design standards in Ukraine. Vodafone’s object architecture is a manifesto of functionalism. Each store is designed to be instantly recognizable from any distance.

The entrance portal always serves as the dominant element of the exterior. This is a complex engineering structure, often made of red composite materials, which forms a clear visual frame. In flagship stores (for example, on Khreshchatyk in Kyiv), facade architecture includes large-scale LED screens integrated directly into the glazing, transforming the store into a media object.

The internal architecture of Vodafone offices (particularly in Kyiv business parks) is based on the “Activity Based Working” concept. The space is divided not into offices, but into activity zones: “quiet zones” for focused work, “loud zones” for team brainstorming, and socialization zones.

Construction Technologies and Materials

The company pays significant attention to fire safety and environmental friendliness of materials. Non-combustible materials (class NG) are used in construction, which is critically important for facilities with high electrical load.

1. Flooring: Heavy-duty large-format porcelain stoneware or poured polymer floors that withstand high traffic.
2. Walls: Use of HPL panels in interiors, which are easy to clean and resistant to mechanical damage.
3. Engineering: Automated climate control systems integrated into a single Building Management System (BMS).

Design Solutions

Vodafone’s design code is a combination of red, white and wood texture. Red color is used as an accent to avoid overloading perception.

Special attention is paid to the ergonomics of consultant workstations. Service counters often have a two-level structure, allowing comfortable service for both standing clients and those sitting (including wheelchair users).

Conceptual Design Mehbud for Vodafone

For Vodafone, which values line clarity and brightness, Mehbud offers the “Rancho” solution in vertical execution for facade decoration of separately located buildings.

1. Facade Dynamics: Vertical metal slats of various widths, painted in signature colors (red RAL 3020 and white RAL 9010), will create an effect of vibration and energy. Such a structure also performs a sun protection function, reducing air conditioning costs.
2. Interior Ceiling: Metal ceiling “Grillato” in red color above the “Top Devices” zone will become a visual magnet attracting visitors to new products. Its cellular structure is ideal for fire suppression and smoke removal systems.
3. Territory Enclosures: For Vodafone technical hubs and data centers, a solid fence “Horizont” is proposed. It provides maximum privacy and perimeter security. Thanks to high-security locks and profile strength, such a fence is a reliable obstacle to unauthorized entry.

№3 – Rozetka: Architecture of Hybrid Retail

Architectural Profile: From Online to Offline Giant

The marketplace Rozetka’s entry into offline became the most large-scale architectural case in Ukrainian retail in recent years. The company created a unique format combining a showroom, pickup point and mini-warehouse.

A landmark project was the revitalization of the Main Post Office premises on Khreshchatyk. Architects managed to integrate modern technological functionality into the monumental interior of Stalinist empire style, preserving historical stucco, chandeliers and space volume. This is an example of careful treatment of architectural heritage when changing the function of a building.

The network of pickup points throughout Ukraine is built on the principle of maximum proximity to the client. The architecture of these points is utilitarian but well-thought-out. Wide entrance doors, absence of thresholds, convenient ramps for trucks – everything is subordinated to logistical efficiency.

Construction Challenges and Solutions

The specifics of Rozetka’s business require special construction solutions:

1. Floor Load: Warehouse areas are equipped with reinforced floors capable of withstanding the weight of racks and cargo equipment.
2. Wear Resistance: Walls in pickup zones and fitting rooms are finished with anti-vandal materials.
3. Ventilation: Powerful supply and exhaust ventilation systems are necessary for comfort in queues and goods preservation in warehouses.

Design Features

Rozetka’s style can be characterized as “industrial-light”. Exposed ceilings with painted communications, metal racks, lots of concrete and signature green color.

An important element of design is navigation. Huge pictograms and letters help clients navigate the order pickup flow.

Conceptual Design Mehbud for Rozetka

Considering the “warehouse” aesthetics and high traffic, Mehbud products are an ideal choice for Rozetka points.

1. Interior Zoning: Use of perforated metal for zoning the warehouse part. Perforation transparency allows clients to see the scale of the warehouse (which works for image), but physically limits access.
2. Ceiling: Rack ceiling in the pickup area will allow hiding main cable routes while maintaining access to them. Black matte slat color will emphasize industrial style.
3. External Finishing: For separate pavilions of pickup points, metal siding “Block-house” or smooth cassettes is proposed. This solution allows quick construction or renovation of facades, providing them with anti-vandal properties and ease of cleaning (graffiti removal, etc.).

№4 – lifecell: Dynamics of Color and Forms

Architectural Profile: Mobility and Brightness

The operator lifecell positions itself as a youth and technology brand. This is reflected in architecture: stores are compact, bright, often using non-standard geometry.

In large shopping centers, lifecell often experiments with “island” shapes, giving them bionic, rounded outlines that distinguish them from rectangular neighbors. Street store facades actively use yellow and blue colors, becoming visual street accents.

Construction Innovations

The company focuses on energy efficiency. New stores install heat recovery systems, which allows reducing heating costs in winter. Materials from secondary processing are also actively used in furniture and decor, emphasizing environmental consciousness.

Design Solutions

lifecell’s interior is energy.

1. Color: Active use of yellow requires designer skill to avoid creating visual noise. Quality matte paints and soft-touch materials are used.
2. Digitalization: Large number of screens and touch panels replace paper posters. Walls are often designed with niches for video walls.

Conceptual Design Mehbud for lifecell

1. Mosaic Facade: Use of metal cassettes in small format in three colors (yellow, blue, white) to create a pixel pattern on the facade. This visualizes the “digital nature” of the operator.
2. Ceiling: “Cube-shaped slats” with different mounting steps will create a dynamic rhythm on the ceiling resembling a sound wave.
3. Enclosures: For lifecell office centers, a “Blinds” fence in yellow color is proposed. This is a bold solution that transforms the fence into an art object and corporate style carrier.

№5 – Allo: Futuristic Design and IoT

Architectural Profile: Stores of the Future

The “Allo” network in “MAX” format sets new standards for electronics space. The architecture of these stores is close to the concept of exhibition centers. Large areas, high ceilings, wide aisles.

A key architectural feature is the integration of “Smart Home” zones. This requires creating a “room within a room”, where architectural means (partitions, floor level changes, ceilings) imitate living space to demonstrate the operation of robot vacuum cleaners, smart lighting, etc.

Construction Technologies

Use of radius (curved) structures from drywall and glass is a signature of Allo interiors. This requires high builder qualification.

Lighting in Allo stores is one of the best on the market. Professional track systems with high color rendering index (CRI>90) are used, allowing buyers to see real gadget colors.

Conceptual Design Mehbud for Allo

1. Futuristic Ceiling: Use of pyramidal grillato or ceilings with triangular cells will emphasize the high-tech orientation of the brand. The metallic shine of the ceiling harmonizes with showcase glass.
2. Interactive Facade: Perforated facade panels with rear RGB lighting. During the day it’s a stylish silver facade, at night – a media surface pulsing with the city rhythm.
3. Zoning: For separating gaming zones from the main hall, partitions from “Rancho” slats in black matte color are ideal.

№6 – Citrus: Emotional Architecture and Edutainment

Architectural Profile: More Than a Store

“Citrus” transforms the concept of a store into an educational-entertainment hub. Projects “Citrus Academy” and “Citrus Hub” (for example, in Odesa on Panteleimonivska Street) are complex architectural complexes. They include lecture halls, coworking zones and cafes.

Citrus architecture is provocative: bright orange facades, use of containers in design, graffiti on walls.

Construction Solutions

Equipping tracks for electric transport inside stores requires use of special polymer floor coverings resistant to tire wear. Soundproofing of lecture halls in open store space is realized through acoustic glass partitions and sound-absorbing ceiling islands.

Conceptual Design Mehbud for Citrus

1. Creative Ceiling: Combination of different types of slats and colors (orange, white, graphite) on the ceiling for space zoning without walls.
2. Facade Accent: Use of “Blinds” slats as a decorative element on the facade to hide external air conditioner units, turning technical necessity into a design element.

№7 – Foxtrot: Renovation “White Hub”

Architectural Profile: Omnichannel Fortress

“Foxtrot” is conducting large-scale network modernization. The new “White Hub” concept provides for a complete change in brand architectural perception. Stores become bright, spacious, with an emphasis on service zones.

The central element of architecture is the “hub” – an area for issuing online orders and providing services. It is distinguished architecturally (by lowering the ceiling level, different floor covering) and visually.

Construction Achievements

Renovation covers hundreds of stores. The company implements energy-saving technologies, completely replacing old metal halide lamps with LED, which reduces lighting energy consumption by three times. Facades are cleaned of advertising noise, covered with modern composite materials.

Conceptual Design Mehbud for Foxtrot

1. Perfect Plane: For updating facades of old buildings where stores are located, Mehbud offers a system of large-format cassettes. They hide wall irregularities, do not require “wet” work and give the building a modern appearance.
2. Ceiling: White matte cube-shaped slats in the interior will support the “White Hub” concept while providing excellent acoustics and access to communications.

№8 – Comfy: Push Marketing in Architecture

Architectural Profile: Boldness and Irony

Comfy architecture is a continuation of their bold marketing strategy. Stores are bright, using non-standard materials (for example, felt on columns, artificial grass).

Store planning often uses “forced route” (loop layout), which gently leads the client through all store zones. This requires careful architectural calculation of aisle widths and turning radii.

Construction Aspects

Comfy was among the first to start using virtual reality (VR) in store design, which allows avoiding errors at the construction stage.

Conceptual Design Mehbud for Comfy

1. Texture and Color: Use of metal panels with wood or stone texture in interiors to create contrast with technological gadgets.
2. Entrance Group: Design of entrance group with metal slats of complex shape creating a “portal” effect.

№9 – Eldorado: Rationalism and Accessibility

Architectural Profile: Efficiency First

Eldorado focuses on the mass segment, so their store architecture is maximally rational. Rectangular forms, clear navigation, absence of “unnecessary” decor. Main focus – on goods.

Facades usually have maximum glazing, transforming the entire store into a showcase.

Conceptual Design Mehbud for Eldorado

1. Anti-Vandal Protection: Cladding of facade base with metal siding of increased strength. This protects the building from mechanical damage by carts and snow removal equipment.
2. Ceiling Economy: Use of classic “Grillato” ceiling – this is a reliable, budget-friendly and durable solution that is ideal for large areas of electronics supermarkets.

№10 – iSpace (and Apple Premium Resellers): Global Minimalism

Architectural Profile: Cult of Details

Official Apple representative stores (iSpace, iStore) in Ukraine are built according to strict Apple guidelines. This is architectural perfectionism.

Only premium materials are used here: specially selected stone for flooring, furniture from Canadian oak, ultra-high transparency glass.

Design and Construction Features

1. Light Ceilings: Stretch light ceilings (“barrisol”) are often used, providing uniform shadowless light.
2. Invisible Engineering: All hatches, outlets, sensors are maximally hidden or integrated into furniture and finishing.

Conceptual Design Mehbud for Premium Segment

1. Exclusive Solutions: For the premium segment, Mehbud offers manufacturing of exclusive metal interior elements with laser cutting or anodized coating in gold/bronze.
2. VIP Zone Privacy: Use of decorative partitions from thin metal profile to create zones for confidential negotiations.

Analytical Overview: Construction and Architectural Trends 2025

1. Phygital Architecture (Physical + Digital)

The boundary between physical store and app is disappearing. Architecture adapts to this merger. Stores become pickup points, showrooms and streaming studios simultaneously. This requires flexible planning and powerful IT infrastructure embedded in walls and ceilings.

2. Energy Independence and Sustainability

In conditions of Ukrainian realities, energy independence has become an architectural standard. Designing places for installing generators and energy storage systems (EcoFlow, Tesla Powerwall) is now part of the architectural project.

Companies increasingly strive to obtain BREEAM or LEED certificates confirming building ecology. Mehbud products contribute to earning points in these systems, as metal is a fully recyclable material, and production is located in Ukraine (reducing logistics carbon footprint).

3. Inclusiveness and Barrier-Free Access

According to DBN V.2.2-40:2018, all new and reconstructed objects must be accessible. This is not just ramps. This includes wide aisles, contrast marking on glass doors (for visually impaired people), correct counter height, tactile tiles. Retail architects integrate these elements into the design code, making inclusiveness stylish.

4. Renovation of Historical Heritage

The trend of opening flagships in historic buildings (Kyiv, Lviv, Odesa) poses complex tasks for builders. How to make ventilation without spoiling the 19th-century facade? How to lay cables without destroying stucco?

The answer lies in “building in building” technologies, when an independent internal frame is created, and use of light structures such as aluminum systems.

Engineering View: Why Mehbud? Technical Analysis

For professional builders and architects, material selection is based on physical-chemical properties. Mehbud plant products meet the highest requirements:

1. Corrosion Resistance: Use of galvanized steel with zinc content of at least 140-275 g/m² and polymer coating (PE, Pural, PVDF) thickness 25-50 μm provides protection class C3-C5. This is critical for facades in cities with aggressive environments.
2. Fire Safety: Metal ceilings and facades belong to combustibility group NG (non-combustible) or G1 (low combustibility), which is a mandatory requirement for evacuation routes in shopping centers and public buildings.
3. Facade Ventilation: The design of Mehbud facade systems provides for a ventilation gap that removes moisture from insulation (mineral wool), preserving its thermal insulation properties and extending the service life of building load-bearing walls.

Conclusion

The architecture of Ukrainian electronics and telecommunications retail has reached the level of world standards. Leading companies invest not only in square meters, but also in meanings, emotions and technologies. Ukraine’s restoration and development is reflected in every new facade, in every thoughtfully designed interior.

Cooperation with national manufacturers such as Mehbud allows architects and developers to implement ambitious projects, relying on the quality, speed and reliability of a local partner. Metal solutions in architecture are a choice in favor of durability, aesthetics and safety, which fully corresponds to the spirit of the times and the needs of modern Ukrainian society.