Architectural Giants of Retail: TOP-10 Shopping Centers in Kyiv Shaping the Face of the Modern Capital

Evolution of Retail Space — From “Box” to “Third Place”

The Kyiv commercial real estate market is undergoing a profound transformation that extends far beyond simple commercial activity. The shopping and entertainment center (SEC) in 2025 has finally ceased to be a utilitarian “shopping box.” It has evolved into a complex, multifunctional social hub — the so-called “third place” after home and work, where architecture and design have become key tools in the competitive battle for visitors’ time, attention, and loyalty.

This evolution is taking place against the backdrop of a stable and dynamic market. According to Colliers Ukraine, in 2024 the average vacancy rate in Kyiv SECs decreased to 10.6%, which is one of the lowest indicators in the last decade. At the same time, rental rates for prime spaces stabilized at $60-70 per sq. m/month, demonstrating market confidence. These economic indicators create a favorable foundation for implementing new, even more ambitious and architecturally expressive projects.

Modern SECs in Kyiv are becoming full-fledged urban dominants that shape the architectural face of entire districts. Global trends find their unique embodiment here:

1. Retailtainment: Deep integration of entertainment components (cinemas, amusement parks, educational spaces) directly into the SEC structure.
2. Biophilic design: Active use of natural elements — living plants, natural materials, water, and daylight — to create a healthy and psychologically comfortable environment.
3. Sustainable development: Increased attention to energy efficiency and environmental friendliness, confirmed by international BREEAM certification.
4. Technology integration: Use of media facades, interactive installations, and digital solutions to create unique user experiences.

This ranking is an attempt to analyze the best SECs in Kyiv from an architectural and construction perspective. We evaluate not only commercial success, but also the boldness of architectural concepts, innovation of engineering solutions, design quality, and the object’s contribution to the urban landscape. From revitalization of historic buildings to creating futuristic “cities within cities” — each of these projects is a bright testament to the maturity and European level of contemporary Ukrainian architecture.

Table: Comparative Characteristics of TOP-10 SECs in Kyiv by Architectural Parameters

Detailed Ranking and Architectural Analysis

#1 — Respublika Park

Architectural Profile

Respublika Park, developed by the world-renowned British firm Chapman Taylor, is not simply the largest SEC in Ukraine, but a project that has set absolutely new standards for the market. Its architectural concept of “city within a city” goes beyond traditional retail, creating a unique ecosystem for recreation, entertainment, and social interaction. The heart of the complex is the unique for Eastern Europe living park “Oasis” with an area of 2,000 m², located under a huge glass dome. This bold solution embodies biophilic design, integrating nature into the interior and creating a comfortable environment for visitors.

Construction Achievements

The realization of such a large-scale project (GBA 300,000 m², GLA 135,000 m²) is an outstanding construction achievement. The project, which was frozen for several years, was successfully revived and completed, demonstrating a high level of project management. Building a huge atrium with living trees required complex engineering solutions for microclimate, irrigation, and lighting. Respublika Park became the first SEC in Ukraine to pass environmental certification according to the international BREEAM standard, confirming its high energy efficiency and compliance with sustainable development principles.

Engineering Systems and Innovations

The complex is equipped with advanced engineering systems. A unique climate control system was created to maintain the life of the “Oasis” park. The innovative entertainment component includes Ukraine’s first indoor “roller coaster” attraction and a 16-meter-high aerodynamic tube, whose integration required special structural and acoustic solutions.

Conceptual Integration from “Mehbud”

To emphasize the ecological and innovative concept of Respublika Park, “Mehbud” products offer solutions that combine natural aesthetics with technology. Facades of entrance groups and technical blocks can be clad with “Mehbud” panels with Printech coating that imitates the texture of natural wood or stone. This will harmoniously combine the exterior with the “green” heart of the complex while ensuring durability and resistance to atmospheric influences. For fencing the huge parking and technical areas, the “Exclusive” blinds fence is ideal. Its modern design and construction will provide the necessary level of security and ventilation without creating visual dissonance with the light and modern architecture of the SEC.

Conceptual design ‘Mehbud’ for Respublika Park

#2 — Blockbuster Mall

Architectural Profile

Blockbuster Mall, designed by Ukrainian architectural firm AVG Group, embodies the “retailtainment” concept in its most large-scale manifestation. The architectural identity of the complex is formed by its unique dynamic facade. This is not just a wall, but a complex multi-layered structure combining glass surfaces, louvers, and huge media screens. At night, the facade transforms into a unified light art object, making the SEC a visual dominant of Stepan Bandera Avenue.

Construction Achievements

The construction of a complex with a total area of 245,000 m² is a significant development achievement. The key challenge for builders was integrating a full-scale indoor amusement park Galaxy with an area of 20,000 m² into the SEC structure. Placing large-scale attractions such as roller coasters and pirate ships required creating large column-free spans and reinforcing load-bearing structures.

Engineering Systems and Innovations

The main innovation is creating a unified entertainment space that connects the SEC with the existing “Blockbuster” entertainment center through a covered pedestrian bridge. This allowed creating synergy between two facilities and forming the largest entertainment cluster in Kyiv. The complex’s engineering systems are designed for extreme loads related to amusement park operations and include powerful ventilation, air conditioning, and fire safety systems.

Conceptual Integration from “Mehbud”

To emphasize the futuristic and dynamic architecture of Blockbuster Mall, “Mehbud” proposes using perforated facade cassettes. They can be integrated into the existing facade system, creating an additional layer with a unique pattern and internal lighting capability. In the interior, for ceiling decoration in spacious galleries and food courts, grillage ceilings are ideal. Their cellular structure will support the industrial aesthetic, hide engineering communications, and become an excellent base for integrating complex lighting systems.

Conceptual design ‘Mehbud’ for Blockbuster Mall

#3 — River Mall

Architectural Profile

River Mall, another project by Chapman Taylor, is a unique example of architecture that maximally utilizes the advantages of its location. Located on the banks of the Dnieper, the SEC is designed to become an integral part of the waterfront landscape. The key element of the architectural concept is a huge open terrace on the third floor, offering panoramic views of the river and the right bank of Kyiv. This transforms the food court zone from a utilitarian space into a unique viewing location. The complex facades are executed in a contemporary minimalist style using large glass surfaces, emphasizing openness to water and filling interiors with natural light.

Construction Achievements

Construction on the riverbank is always a complex engineering task requiring special solutions for foundations and waterproofing. The total area of the complex is 140,000 m², making it the largest SEC on the Left Bank. The project also includes a modern 10-screen “Planet Cinema” with IMAX technology, whose integration required creating special soundproof structures.

Engineering Systems and Innovations

River Mall’s innovation lies in creating a full-fledged embankment and public space around the SEC. This is an example of how a commercial facility can take on urban improvement functions, creating a new attraction point for district residents. The complex’s engineering systems meet the highest standards of energy efficiency and safety.

Conceptual Integration from “Mehbud”

For arranging River Mall’s open terrace and embankment, where materials are subjected to intensive moisture and wind exposure, “Mehbud” proposes using aluminum railings and canopy systems. Aluminum does not corrode, guaranteeing durability and preservation of aesthetic appearance. For creating shade canopies on the terrace, rack ceilings can be used. They will create comfortable shade without hindering air circulation, and their modern design will perfectly complement the complex’s architecture.

Conceptual design ‘Mehbud’ for River Mall

#4 — Lavina Mall

Architectural Profile

Lavina Mall, designed by AVG Group, became Ukraine’s first “super-regional mall” format SEC, combining under one roof a giant shopping gallery and Europe’s largest indoor thematic amusement park “Galaxy”. The complex’s architecture is maximally functional: a single-story structure with a long central gallery ensures simple and intuitively understandable navigation for visitors. The main architectural accent is a huge glass dome over the amusement park zone, filling the space with natural light.

Construction Achievements

Building a complex with a total area of 127,000 m² with a unique amusement park including 20 attractions became a significant step in Ukrainian retail development. The project was realized in tight deadlines, demonstrating effective use of modern construction technologies, particularly metal frameworks and sandwich panels.

Engineering Systems and Innovations

Lavina Mall’s key innovation is the synergy of retail and entertainment, which allowed creating a unique market proposition and attracting family audiences. The complex’s engineering systems, especially in the amusement park zone, are designed to ensure the highest level of safety.

Conceptual Integration from “Mehbud”

For updating facades and giving them a more dynamic appearance, “Mehbud” rack facades can be used. Horizontal lines will create a sense of movement and visually unite the extended building. For internal galleries where acoustics and easy access to communications are important, the ideal solution is “Mehbud” perforated cassette ceilings, which effectively absorb noise and have a modern appearance.

Conceptual design ‘Mehbud’ for Lavina Mall

#5 — Ocean Plaza

Architectural Profile

Ocean Plaza, opened in 2012, became one of the first new generation SECs in Kyiv and set trends for the entire industry for a long time. Its architectural concept, developed by developer KAN Development, is based on marine themes. The iconic element that made the SEC instantly recognizable was a unique media facade with LED lighting imitating water movement and a huge seamless aquarium with a volume of 350,000 liters in the central atrium.

Construction Achievements

The project is an example of successful integration of a large commercial facility into dense urban development. Construction required complex logistical and engineering solutions, particularly for installing the unique aquarium and media facade.

Engineering Systems and Innovations

At the time of opening, Ocean Plaza was one of the most technologically advanced SECs in Ukraine. The life support system for the giant aquarium is an independent complex engineering system. The media facade became the first of such scale in Kyiv and remains one of the most spectacular.

Conceptual Integration from “Mehbud”

For interior modernization and supporting the marine theme, “Mehbud” proposes using “wave” rack ceilings. Their smooth, curved form can imitate sea waves, creating a unique and dynamic space in galleries and food courts. For fencing the multi-level parking, the “Brus” fence is the ideal solution, providing reliability, durability, and modern appearance.

Conceptual design ‘Mehbud’ for Ocean Plaza

#6 — TsUM (Central Department Store)

Architectural Profile

The reconstruction of Kyiv’s TsUM is an exemplary example of revitalization and adaptive reuse of an architectural monument. The project, developed by British architectural firm Benoy, is based on the principle of delicately combining historical heritage with modern functionality. Architects preserved and carefully restored the historic facade of the 1939 building while completely rebuilding the internal space.

Construction Achievements

This is one of the most complex reconstruction projects in Ukraine. Builders had to literally “remove” the entire internal part of the building, preserving only the facade wall. A completely new framework was erected inside, allowing the creation of a modern open space with an atrium and escalators.

Engineering Systems and Innovations

The key innovative solution is a glass atrium that penetrates all floors and fills the space with natural light. An open terrace with restaurants was created on the building’s roof, which became a new popular location in the city center. TsUM’s engineering systems meet the highest standards for premium-class facilities.

Conceptual Integration from “Mehbud”

For ceiling decoration in new zones or during future renovations where fire-resistant and durable materials corresponding to premium status are needed, “Mehbud” cube shaped ceilings are ideal. They can be executed in exclusive colors, for example, “brass-like” or “bronze”, which will harmoniously combine with the department store’s luxurious interiors.

Conceptual design ‘Mehbud’ for TsUM

#7 — Gulliver

Architectural Profile

The multifunctional Gulliver complex, designed by “Creative Architectural Workshop A. Pashenko”, is one of the most prominent architectural dominants of modern Kyiv. Its architectural concept is creating a “vertical city” that combines a 35-story class “A” business center and a 16-story shopping and entertainment complex. The swift, glass silhouette of the skyscraper became an integral part of the capital’s central district panorama.

Construction Achievements

Building a skyscraper in the historic city center is an extremely complex engineering task requiring the application of advanced technologies in foundation and monolithic-frame work. The total area of the complex is 151,000 m².

Engineering Systems and Innovations

Gulliver is equipped with the most modern engineering systems that are standard for class “A” buildings: high-speed elevators, centralized ventilation and air conditioning systems, intelligent building management system (BMS). The complex’s facade is not only aesthetic but also a functional element ensuring high energy efficiency.

Conceptual Integration from “Mehbud”

For updating SEC interiors and giving them a more modern and dynamic appearance, “Mehbud” rack ceilings can be used. Their linear structure will emphasize the verticality and swiftness of the entire complex’s architecture. For fencing multi-level parking and technical terraces, the “Vertical” fence is the ideal solution, visually continuing the facade’s vertical lines.

Conceptual design ‘Mehbud’ for Gulliver

#8 — Dream (Town/Yellow)

Architectural Profile

The Dream complex, consisting of two separate buildings, is a unique project for Kyiv implementing the concept of thematic design. Each SEC atrium is decorated in the style of a particular country or city: Greece, China, Hollywood, Paris. This approach, developed by “Creative Architectural Workshop A. Pashenko”, transforms shopping into a kind of journey.

Construction Achievements

The project is an example of effective development of a complex elongated plot along Obolon Avenue. Building two large buildings over an active metro line required special engineering solutions.

Engineering Systems and Innovations

The project’s innovation lies in its bold theming, which was new for the Ukrainian market at the time of opening. The complex also includes a large entertainment zone with a water park, ice rink, and cinema, making it a center of attraction for the entire northern district of Kyiv.

Conceptual Integration from “Mehbud”

For updating thematic atriums, “Mehbud” cassette ceilings with individual printing (photo printing) can be used. This will allow creating unique ceiling panels supporting each zone’s style (for example, images of ancient ornaments for “Greece” or hieroglyphs for “China”), combining aesthetics with high fire safety and functionality.

Conceptual design ‘Mehbud’ for Dream

#9 — Retroville

Architectural Profile

SEC Retroville, opened in 2020, implements the concept of a “lifestyle center” — a multifunctional space that is the center of life for its district. The complex’s architecture is modern and functional, with emphasis on creating a comfortable environment. The key feature is a large green zone and public space in front of the SEC, serving as a place for recreation and events.

Construction Achievements

The project with a total area of 120,334 m² includes not only retail spaces but also a business center and fitness club. This is an example of comprehensive territory development.

Engineering Systems and Innovations

Retroville’s innovation lies in its orientation to local community needs. The presence of a large food court with terrace access, cinema, and children’s entertainment zones makes it a popular place for family leisure.

Conceptual Integration from “Mehbud”

For arranging outdoor terraces and canopies, “Mehbud” rack systems are the ideal solution. They create comfortable shade and have a modern appearance. For perimeter fencing of the complex and parking, the “Rancho” fence can be used, emphasizing the suburban, “lifestyle” character of the SEC.

Conceptual design ‘Mehbud’ for Retroville

#10 — Cosmopolite Multimall (former “Bolshevik”)

Architectural Profile

Cosmopolite Multimall is one of the first and most large-scale industrial facility revitalization projects in Ukraine. The SEC was created on the basis of the former “Bolshevik” factory buildings. The architectural concept was to preserve the industrial aesthetics of old brick buildings and integrate them into modern retail space.

Construction Achievements

Reconstruction of old factory workshops is an extremely complex task requiring reinforcement of foundations, floors, and complete replacement of engineering networks. Successful realization of this project became an important precedent for the Ukrainian real estate market.

Engineering Systems and Innovations

The project’s innovation lies in the approach to adaptive reuse itself. The complex includes a hotel, congress hall, cinema, and bowling, making it a multifunctional center.

Conceptual Integration from “Mehbud”

To emphasize loft, industrial aesthetics in interiors, “Mehbud” grillage ceilings are ideal. Their open structure allows exposing engineering communications, which is characteristic of loft style. For facade updates, “Mehbud” panels with corten steel-imitating coating can be used, enhancing the complex’s industrial character.

Conceptual design ‘Mehbud’ for Cosmopolite Multimall

Conclusion: The Future of Kyiv Retail — Synergy of Architecture, Technology, and Experiences

Analysis of leading SECs in Kyiv demonstrates an irreversible movement from simple trading to creating complex ecosystems for living, working, and recreation. Architecture plays a key, system-forming role in this process. Successful projects prove that the future belongs to multifunctional, sustainable, and emotionally rich spaces capable of generating unique experiences and building long-term relationships with visitors.

Predicting further development, one can expect strengthening trends toward hyper-personalization, further integration of digital technologies, and creation of even more flexible transformer spaces. Competition will increasingly shift to the area of architectural quality, concept uniqueness, and service level.

Realization of these ambitious architectural visions is impossible without an appropriate material and technical base. Innovative Ukrainian manufacturers such as “Mehbud” factory play a key role in shaping the architectural face of the new generation of Ukrainian SECs. Their modern facade systems, metal ceilings, and railings allow architects and developers to implement the boldest ideas while ensuring high quality, durability, fire safety, and aesthetic perfection. Such partnerships are the key to creating world-class commercial real estate in Ukraine.