TOP-10 Ukrainian Breweries Shaping the Modern Landscape

A New Era of Industrial Architecture: How Ukrainian Breweries Become Cultural Hubs

Introduction: From Production to Experience

Modern Ukrainian breweries are transforming from utilitarian production facilities into multifunctional spaces that unite industry, gastronomy, culture, and community. Architecture and design become key tools for brand differentiation and creating unique customer experiences.

The market demonstrates steady growth: in 2024, industry revenue reached 46.3 billion UAH (+17.5% compared to 2023), production – 140 million decaliters (+4.8%). The craft segment is developing most dynamically (+19% in 2023), emphasizing brand identity and authenticity. Architecture becomes the physical embodiment of this value, enhancing prestige and creating community around the product.

Two Development Paths: Revitalization and New Construction

Revitalization – adaptation of historical industrial buildings, preserving authenticity and creating new scenarios of urban life. Examples include the restoration of Rikhert and Schulz factories, which are being transformed into cultural, public, and residential spaces.

New Construction – projects “from scratch,” integrated into natural or urban context. Example – “Tsypa” brewery in the Carpathians, where architecture is combined with local traditions. New facilities actively use parametric design and modern technologies.

Both strategies are oriented toward creating multifunctional, sustainable, and socially significant spaces.

Evaluation Criteria

1. Conceptual Integrity – correspondence of architecture to brand philosophy.
2. Innovation in Materials and Constructions – modern technologies and materials.
3. Contextual Integration – harmony with surroundings.
4. Spatial Organization and Visitor Experience – comfort, zoning logic, atmosphere.
5. Contribution to Urban Landscape – significance of the object for community and territory.

This system allows evaluating not only aesthetics but also the depth of architectural concept and its impact on industry development.

Comparative Analysis Table: TOP Breweries by Architectural Criteria

Ranking: Architectural Achievements in Ukrainian Brewing

#1 – MOVA Brewing Co., Dnipro: Manifesto of Modern Revitalization

The MOVA Brewing Co. project in Dnipro, realized by the world-renowned architectural firm balbek bureau, is not just a brewery, but an exemplary example of revitalization and creation of new public space that sets the highest standards for the entire industry. This is an architectural manifesto demonstrating how a neglected industrial territory can transform into a living cultural hub.

Conceptual Design from “Mehbud” for MOVA Brewing Co.

The “Mehbud” factory proposes a conceptual vision that complements and emphasizes the industrial aesthetics of MOVA Brewing Co., developed by balbek bureau. Using modern metal solutions, even greater expressiveness of architectural image can be achieved, enhancing functionality and durability without disrupting the original concept. The integration of “Mehbud” products is a synergy between modern industrial architecture and innovative construction technologies, creating a holistic and complete object.

Mehbud’s Design Vision for MOVA Brewing Co.

1. Facade System: Visualization of using “Mehbud” facade cassettes with micro-ribbed surface on the new restaurant building. This solution creates a complex play of light and shadow, adding textural depth and modern appearance to the facade. Such a facade will effectively contrast with the historic brick of adjacent buildings while harmonizing with the metal framework and overall modernist styling.
2. Ceiling Solutions: Rendering of “Mehbud” cubic rail ceiling in the main restaurant hall. This will not only elegantly conceal engineering communications (ventilation systems, electrical wiring) but also create a clear rhythmic pattern that visually “gathers” the large double-height space. Additionally, such a ceiling significantly improves the acoustic characteristics of the premises, which is important for guest comfort.
3. “Rancho” Fence: Concept of using “Rancho” model fence around the territory perimeter. Its horizontal slats provide the necessary security level but, unlike a solid fence, do not create a visual barrier. This fully corresponds to MOVA’s philosophy of openness and space permeability. Reliable polymer coating, selected to match facade colors, guarantees durability and aesthetic unity of the entire complex.

#2 – Beer Theater “Pravda”, Lviv: Loft in the Heart of Historical Heritage

Beer Theater “Pravda” in Lviv is a unique phenomenon where craft ideology meets the grandeur of the city’s historic center, listed as UNESCO World Heritage. This is not just a brewery, but a powerful cultural institution whose architecture is a dialogue between past and present.

Conceptual Design from “Mehbud” for Beer Theater “Pravda”

For such a historically significant and architecturally valuable object as Beer Theater “Pravda,” “Mehbud” offers delicate yet expressive solutions. The task is to integrate modern functional elements without damaging or obscuring the authentic texture of the old townhouse. “Mehbud” metal structures can serve as an elegant counterpoint to historic brick and wood, emphasizing the dialogue between epochs that underlies the establishment’s concept.

Modern Mehbud Accents in Pravda’s Historic Space

1. Suspended Grillato Grid Ceiling: Visualization of using “Grillato” ceiling in the basement where work is currently ongoing. This light, cellular structure creates a modern, technical look, allows easy integration of lighting and ventilation systems, and simultaneously, due to its transparency, keeps authentic vaulted ceilings visible. This creates an effect of layering and spatial depth.
2. Decorative Perforated Panels: Rendering of using “Mehbud” perforated metal panels for zoning large halls or as decorative wall elements. Perforation with a unique, custom-designed pattern (for example, stylized “Pravda” logo or abstract ornament) can create a branded but unobtrusive design element that adds modern graphics and lightness to the interior.
3. Rail Ceiling for Technical Zones: Concept of using classic “Mehbud” rail ceiling in kitchen zones and other technical premises. This is a practical, hygienic, and durable solution that will provide easy access to communications and meet the high sanitary requirements necessary for food production.

#3 – Hutsul Brewery “Tsypa”, Kvasy: Architecture Born from Landscape

Hutsul brewery “Tsypa” in Kvasy village, Rakhiv district, is a striking example of architecture that grows from its context. Unlike urban projects, its value lies not in technological innovations or bold forms, but in deep connection with the landscape, culture, and traditions of the Carpathians. This is an embodiment of the “genius loci” philosophy – the spirit of place.

Conceptual Design from “Mehbud” for “Tsypa” Brewery

Integrating modern materials into traditional Carpathian wooden architecture requires special sensitivity and respect for context. “Mehbud” offers solutions that harmoniously combine with natural wood and stone, adding modern functionality and durability necessary in mountain climate conditions. Using metal elements with high-quality polymer “wood-like” coating allows preserving authentic appearance while providing unmatched operational characteristics of metal.

Harmony of Metal and Wood: Mehbud Solutions for Tsypa

1. “Louvers” Fence with Printech Coating (wood-like): Visualization of fence surrounding the brewery territory. The “Louvers” model provides privacy and security, and its texture and color imitating natural wood perfectly fits into the wooden ensemble. This solution creates the appearance of a traditional wooden fence but is significantly more resistant to moisture, temperature fluctuations, and pests.
2. “Block House” Metal Siding: Rendering of using “Block House” metal siding for finishing new technical extensions or storage facilities. This material allows quickly and efficiently erecting functional structures that will visually not differ from traditional wooden log buildings, maintaining stylistic unity of the entire complex.
3. Metal Gutter Systems: Concept of installing reliable “Mehbud” metal gutter systems on the main building. Selected in dark wood or graphite color, they will not only effectively drain water, which is critically important in a region with high precipitation, but also serve as neat graphic accents emphasizing roof geometry.

#4 – Kumpel, Lviv: Evolution from Classic Pub to Modern Terrace

“Kumpel” is one of the oldest and most famous craft brands in Lviv, which over almost 10 years of existence has become a true institution. Its architectural presence in the city is unique in that it is represented in two different formats, reflecting the evolution of ideas about ideal space for beer consumption.

Conceptual Design from “Mehbud” for “Kumpel”

For such a multifaceted brand as “Kumpel,” “Mehbud” can offer solutions that emphasize the uniqueness of each of its spaces. For the modern terrace on Chornovola Avenue, the key task is creating light, functional, and aesthetic structures that do not overload the space and ensure comfort and safety for guests.

Modern Mehbud Solutions for Kumpel’s Urban Terrace”

1. “Breeze” Slat Pergola: Visualization of installing a light “Breeze” metal pergola from “Mehbud” over part of the terrace. Its rotating slats allow regulating sunlight levels and creating shaded zones on hot days, and in the evening they can be fully opened for stargazing. This significantly increases terrace functionality and comfort.
2. Transparent Metal and Glass Fence: Rendering of replacing existing terrace fence with modern construction of “Mehbud” metal posts and tempered glass. This solution provides maximum safety while being visually weightless and not interfering with enjoying Lviv’s panorama, which is the main value of this space.
3. Metal Planters and Furniture: Concept of creating custom outdoor furniture and large plant containers from polymer-coated metal for the terrace. This will allow creating a unified stylistic ensemble, and using metal will ensure durability and weather resistance.

#5 – Varvar Brew, Kyiv: Industrial Aesthetics and Pub Classics

Kyiv brewery Varvar Brew is one of the leaders and ideologists of the Ukrainian craft revolution. Its story, which began in 2015 after the founders moved from Donetsk, is an example of resilience and dedication to their craft. Varvar’s architectural presence in Kyiv reflects this philosophy: it combines large-scale industrial production with classic, understandable aesthetics of the signature pub.

Conceptual Design from “Mehbud” for Varvar Brew

For industrial territories where Varvar production is located and for updating exteriors of urban establishments, “Mehbud” offers reliable, functional, and aesthetically expressive solutions. They allow structuring large industrial spaces and giving modern appearance to facades while maintaining industrial character.

Functionality and Style from Mehbud for Varvar Brew

1. Industrial “Prom” Fence: Visualization of factory territory fencing using reinforced “Prom” panel fence from “Mehbud.” This is a reliable and durable solution providing the high security level necessary for industrial facilities. The mesh structure doesn’t create a solid wall, keeping the territory visually open.
2. “Rail” Facade Slats: Rendering of updating the facade of the building housing Varvar Bar using vertical “Rail” metal slats. This will allow creating a modern, graphic facade, highlighting the entrance group and giving the building a more recognizable appearance. Slats can also serve as a base for placing external advertising and lighting.
3. Acoustic Ceilings in Production Workshops: Concept of using special perforated “Mehbud” metal panels with acoustic membrane for ceiling finishing in noisy production workshops. This will significantly reduce noise levels, creating more comfortable working conditions for staff, which is an important aspect of modern industrial design.

Case Study #1: BEER ART CENTER (Schulz Brewery Revitalization Project, Kyiv)

The BEER ART CENTER project is not just an architectural proposal, but a powerful urban statement about the future of Kyiv’s industrial heritage. Developed under architect Roman Derpa’s leadership, this competition-winning project of the National Union of Architects of Ukraine offers a comprehensive vision for revitalizing the historic Karl Schulz brewery on Demiivska Square.

Conceptual Design from “Mehbud” for BEER ART CENTER

For such an ambitious and technologically complex revitalization project as BEER ART CENTER, “Mehbud” can offer a full spectrum of high-tech facade, ceiling, and structural solutions. They will allow creating impressive and functional contrast between 19th-century historic brickwork and light, modern architecture of new volumes, materializing the project philosophy – combining past and future.

Mehbud Technologies for Future Architecture:

1. Ventilated Facade with HPL Panels: Visualization of new art center buildings clad with “Mehbud” HPL panels. These panels allow creating perfectly smooth, minimalist surfaces of any color (for example, neutral gray or white), which will become an ideal background for expressive historic brick texture. Ventilated facade also ensures high building energy efficiency.
2. Glass Partitions on Metal Framework: Rendering of museum and gallery interiors where light glass partitions on thin “Mehbud” metal profiles divide space. This allows creating necessary functional zones without disrupting volume sensation and maintaining visual connection with original brick walls and building structures.
3. Parametric Ceilings: Concept of creating a unique parametric ceiling from “Mehbud” cubic rail in the foyer or main hall. Using computational design, a complex, wave-like surface can be created that will become the central art object of the interior, demonstrating modern technology possibilities combined with historic context.

Case Study #2: Rikhert&Park (Rikhert Brewery Revitalization Project, Kyiv)

The “Rikhert&Park” project is another landmark example of rethinking Kyiv’s industrial heritage, but on a different scale and with a different economic model. This is not just revitalization of one factory, but comprehensive reconstruction of a huge Podil territory, demonstrating modern approaches to urban development.

Conceptual Design from “Mehbud” for “Rikhert&Park”

In such a large-scale and diverse complex as “Rikhert&Park,” “Mehbud” products can find application at all levels – from delicate restoration to large-scale new construction. Modern metal solutions will help create a unified but simultaneously diverse architectural ensemble, where each element – from residential building facade to park fence – works for the overall concept and ensures high quality and durability.

Comprehensive Mehbud Solutions for Urban Space:

1. Residential Building Facades: Visualization of residential buildings using combination of different “Mehbud” facade systems. For example, combining rail facades with wood texture and smooth facade cassettes in neutral colors. This will allow creating dynamic, modern architecture that visually differs from historic buildings but is connected to them through using similar material and color palette.
2. Park and Public Zone Fencing: Rendering of park zones and playgrounds fenced with transparent and aesthetic “Horizon” or “Classic” metal fence. These models provide necessary security level while maintaining visual permeability, which is key for creating successful, open, and safe public space.
3. Stylobate Part Cladding: Concept of using “Mehbud” metal panels for cladding stylobate parts of buildings housing parking and commercial premises. This is a practical and anti-vandal solution allowing creation of unified, neat ground level for the entire complex, visually uniting different buildings.

#8 – First Dnipro Brewery, Dnipro: Pioneer of Craft Scene

First Dnipro Brewery (FDB) holds a special place in Ukrainian brewing history. Founded in 1997, it became one of the first craft breweries in the country that began brewing unpasteurized beer using German technology on modern equipment from world leader ZIP Technologies. Architecturally and structurally, FDB is an embodiment of the first craft wave – a functional industrial facility where technology plays the main role. Its contribution lies not so much in unique design as in laying the foundation for the entire industry, proving the possibility of quality, independent brewing in Ukraine.

#9 – Rebrew, Kyiv: Laboratory of Beer Innovations

Kyiv brewery Rebrew is known for its bold and innovative approach to brewing. They constantly experiment with styles, technologies (for example, cold hopping) and ingredients. Although detailed information about their architectural solutions is limited, it can be assumed that the brewery space is designed as a flexible laboratory. Architecture here is probably subordinated to function and technological process, ensuring maximum efficiency for creating experimental beer batches. This is an example of how brand philosophy (innovation) dictates a functional rather than purely aesthetic approach to space design.

#10 – SHO Brewery, Mykolaiv: Small Batch Philosophy

Mykolaiv brewery SHO Brewery represents the new craft wave that emphasizes small-batch beer production. This approach allows achieving maximum quality control and creating unique, niche products. Architecture of such production is probably compact, flexible, and efficient. This is not a large-scale industrial complex, but rather a workshop or atelier where every square meter is used rationally. Such space design is probably minimalist and functional, reflecting brand philosophy: nothing superfluous, only quality and taste.

Future of Industrial Design: Role of Innovative Materials and Architectural Vision

Synthesis and Conclusions

Ukrainian breweries are at the forefront of rethinking industrial architecture. Production facilities are transforming into cultural, social, and economically valuable spaces. Success is achieved through different paths: from high-tech urban revitalization, as in MOVA Brewing Co., to authentic solutions integrated into landscape, as in “Tsypa.” Between these poles are hybrid models, for example, historic building adaptation of “Pravda” or classic pub format of “Kumpel” and Varvar Bar. Common to all is the close connection between architectural concept and brand identity.

Development Forecast

1. Sustainability and Environmental Friendliness – emphasis on energy efficiency, resource reuse, and environmentally clean materials.
2. Hyper-flexible Spaces – room transformation for different formats: from cafe or coworking during the day to concert venue in the evening.
3. Technology Integration – implementation of “smart” control systems, AR/VR for interactive experience.
4. Community and Co-creation – active involvement of local residents in creating public spaces at breweries.

Mehbud’s Role

Modern architectural visions are impossible without quality material base. “Mehbud” acts as a strategic partner for architects and developers, offering:

1. Dialogue between Old and New – combining historic masonry with modern metal facades.
2. Durability and Functionality – high quality and material resistance for intensive operation.
3. Design Freedom – wide selection of colors, textures, and forms for implementing unique projects.

Thus, “Mehbud” helps transform bold concepts into landmark objects, shaping Ukraine’s modern architectural landscape.