Architectural Jewels of the Gaming Business: TOP Casinos in Ukraine in terms of Design and Construction Innovations 2025

A New Era of Ukrainian Entertainment Architecture

The legalization of the gambling business in Ukraine in 2020 became a powerful catalyst not only for the economy, but also for the architectural and construction industry. This step opened a new segment of premium commercial real estate, presenting architects, designers and developers with unique and ambitious challenges.

The legislative requirement to place land-based casinos and slot machine halls exclusively in 3-5 star hotels determined the key development vector: not constructing new buildings from scratch, but masterful integration of modern entertainment complexes into existing, often historically significant architectural ensembles. This has created a unique synergy between the hospitality industry and the gambling business, where casino design must not simply match the hotel’s status, but enhance its brand, creating a holistic experience for visitors.

Economic Prerequisites for the Architectural Boom

The economic impact of this reform is undeniable. According to 2024 data, Ukrainians spent about 160 billion hryvnias on gambling, which indicates the enormous market volume. At the same time, the high cost of licenses, which in Kyiv can reach 85 million hryvnias per year, sets a high entry threshold for operators.

Such significant investments in licensing naturally require corresponding capital investments in creating spaces of the highest quality. Operators do not build temporary pavilions; they create long-term assets that must attract a solvent audience for years. This creates demand for high-quality, durable and prestigious architectural solutions, which in turn stimulates the construction market and manufacturers of innovative materials.

Global Trends in Elite Entertainment Space Design

Global trends in elite entertainment space design are also undergoing transformation. The classic “private club” model – a dark, isolated space without windows and clocks, designed to disorient the guest in time – is gradually giving way to new concepts.

Modern casinos increasingly become bright, open spaces that integrate natural materials such as stone and wood, elements of biophilic design and innovative technologies. The concept of “quiet luxury” is reflected in the combination of functionality, impeccable material quality and unique atmosphere that transforms a casino visit into an unforgettable emotional experience.

In this context, Ukrainian manufacturers such as the “Mehbud” factory play a key role, offering modern solutions – from metal ceilings that allow creating complex lighting and acoustic scenarios, to facade systems and fencing that form the premium appearance of the establishment.

Table 1: Statistics of the gambling market and related industries in Ukraine (2023-2024)

Table 2: Comparative characteristics of TOP-8 casinos in Ukraine by architectural and design parameters

Ranking of Architectural Gems: Leading Gaming Establishments in Ukraine

#1 — Billionaire Casino (Kyiv, “InterContinental Kyiv” hotel)

Architectural Profile

Billionaire Casino, which became the first legal gambling establishment in the capital, positioned itself from the beginning as a premium-class space oriented toward the most demanding audience. The design concept, declared as “Renaissance,” aims to recreate the atmosphere of classic European gaming houses, where excitement is combined with high art and aristocracy.

This decision is a bold step, as the casino is integrated into the modern building of the five-star InterContinental hotel, known for its elegant but restrained international style. The architects managed to avoid dissonance by creating a separate, intimate world. The visitor, entering inside, seems to be transported to another world, which is one of the key psychological techniques in casino design – creating a sense of detachment from reality and everyday life.

The casino interior is saturated with luxurious materials: gaming tables, custom-made by Italian company Abbiati, are made of mahogany, which immediately sets the high status of the establishment. Five halls, bar and restaurant are finished using velvet, natural stone and exquisite decorative elements, creating the feeling of an exclusive private club.

The small area of 506.8 m² by industry standards only enhances this impression, emphasizing not scale, but exclusivity and privacy.

Construction Achievements

The main construction task was comprehensive renovation and adaptation of existing hotel premises to the specific needs of a casino. Location in the basement or ground floor required complex engineering solutions to ensure effective ventilation, air conditioning and, most importantly, complete soundproofing so as not to disturb hotel guests’ comfort.

Installation of new utilities, integration of fire safety and highest-level video surveillance systems into an already functioning building testifies to the high qualification of engineering and construction teams.

Engineering Systems

For a premium-class casino, reliable and unobtrusive engineering systems are critically important. Billionaire Casino has implemented a multi-zone climate control system that maintains ideal temperature and air quality in each of the halls. Special attention is paid to security systems, including not only an extensive video surveillance network, but also access control systems for VIP areas and service premises.

Lighting is designed to create an intimate, cozy atmosphere while providing sufficient brightness over gaming tables.

Conceptual “Mehbud” Design for Billionaire Casino

To enhance the atmosphere of exclusivity and modern luxury in Billionaire Casino, architectural solutions from “Mehbud” offer the perfect balance between classics and innovation.

• Visualization 1: Cube-shaped ceiling “Mehbud” with dark wood coating in the VIP hall, creating a sense of warmth and privacy.
• Visualization 2: “Mehbud” decorative perforated panels as space zoning elements at the bar, giving the interior modern lightness.
• Visualization 3: “Mehbud” facade cassette system for updating the casino entrance group, giving it a modern and prestigious appearance, harmoniously combining with the hotel architecture.

#2 — Shangri La Casino (Kyiv, “Fairmont Grand Hotel Kyiv” hotel)

Architectural Profile

Shangri La Casino, as part of the famous international network, brought world-class design and service standards to Kyiv. Its location in the Fairmont Grand Hotel on Podil, in a building with majestic “baroque” architecture and classically elegant interiors, determined the main vector of the design concept.

The casino interior is a logical continuation of the hotel style: luxurious materials such as marble and crystal, expensive fabrics, massive golden chandeliers and carpets with complex patterns reign here. The design combines “classical elegance with bright elements,” creating an atmosphere of grandeur and celebration.

The significant area of the establishment, about 1500 m², allowed creating spacious gaming halls, a separate VIP club, as well as an exquisite restaurant and bar, making it one of the largest and most respectable casinos in the capital.

Construction Achievements

Implementing a project of this scale in the historic part of the city, in a functioning hotel building, is a significant construction achievement. The work required not only replanning and re-equipping huge areas, but also possibly strengthening load-bearing structures to accommodate heavy equipment and large numbers of visitors.

Installation of new engineering networks, particularly a powerful ventilation and air conditioning system, was a key task to ensure comfortable microclimate in windowless halls.

Engineering Systems

Given the area and number of potential visitors, Shangri La’s engineering systems are designed with large power reserves. Special attention is paid to acoustic comfort: modern sound-absorbing materials are used in wall and ceiling finishes to minimize noise from slot machines and create a comfortable atmosphere at card tables.

Multi-level lighting system allows creating different scenarios for day and evening time, emphasizing interior luxury and creating the right mood for gaming.

Conceptual “Mehbud” Design for Shangri La Casino

To complement the magnificent casino interior of Shangri La, construction innovations from “Mehbud” can offer refined and functional solutions.

• Visualization 1: “Mehbud” Rack ceiling in golden color in the casino lounge area, reflecting the light of crystal chandeliers.
• Visualization 2: Exclusive Blinds fence from “Mehbud” on the private terrace of the VIP hall with a view of the Dnieper.
• Visualization 3: “Mehbud” metal panels with laser cutting in the form of ornament, decorating the walls in the bar area, creating a unique decorative accent.

#3 — FAVBET Casino (Kyiv, “MERCURE Kyiv Congress Hotel” hotel)

Architectural Profile

FAVBET Casino is the largest casino in Kyiv by area, occupying an impressive 1710 m². Its concept goes beyond a traditional gambling establishment, positioning itself as a full-fledged entertainment complex.

The presence of a stage for show programs, poker club and restaurant indicates orientation toward a wide audience and diverse leisure formats. Location in the modern Mercure congress hotel, oriented toward business audience, determined the choice of appropriate architectural style – modern eclecticism, combining “modern aesthetics with timeless elegance.”

The interior is dominated by clean lines, quality modern materials such as metal, glass and wood, as well as a complex LED lighting system that allows dynamically changing the atmosphere of five different halls.

Construction Achievements

This project is a striking example of large-scale renovation of commercial spaces. The main challenge for builders was creating a multifunctional space with complex logistics and clear zoning. It was necessary to ensure both the isolation of three VIP halls and the openness of the main space with slot machines and stage.

Integration of professional stage equipment, including lighting and sound systems, required special acoustic calculations, laying kilometers of cable networks and creating structures capable of withstanding significant loads.

Engineering Systems

Technological advancement is a key feature of FAVBET Casino’s engineering systems. In addition to a powerful climate control system, which is standard for establishments of this level, a complex lighting and multimedia management system is implemented here. This allows instantly adapting the space for different events – from poker games to concert performances.

Security systems are integrated with the hotel’s general infrastructure, ensuring maximum protection for guests and staff.

Conceptual “Mehbud” Design for FAVBET Casino

For such a large-scale and technological space as FAVBET Casino, architectural solutions from “Mehbud” are indispensable.

• Visualization 1: Black matte “Grillato” ceiling from “Mehbud” in the main gaming hall, through which communications and lighting elements are visible, creating industrial chic.
• Visualization 2: “Mehbud” ventilated facade made of metal cassettes in dark graphite color with integrated LED lighting at the casino entrance.
• Visualization 3: “Rancho” fence from “Mehbud” for zoning the summer terrace of the casino restaurant, creating a cozy and stylish atmosphere.

#4 — VIP CLUB PREMIER PALACE (Kyiv, “Premier Palace Hotel” hotel)

Architectural Profile

VIP CLUB PREMIER PALACE is an establishment with rich history, which functioned even before the legalization of the gambling business and resumed operations in 2021. Its main architectural feature is complete integration into the atmosphere of the Premier Palace hotel, a historic building from 1909 that is a monument of architecture and cultural heritage of the city.

The casino design is maintained in the style of classicism and historicism, emphasizing its elite status. The interiors use luxurious wood panels, molding, bronze elements and expensive fabrics. This creates the atmosphere of a respectable private club for the chosen few, where the main thing is not bright lights, but privacy, comfort and impeccable service.

Construction Achievements

Renovating a casino in a historic building is an extremely complex task requiring a delicate approach. Builders and restorers had to preserve authentic interior elements while integrating modern gaming equipment and engineering systems.

Work on strengthening floors, installing hidden ventilation and security systems, restoring wooden elements and molding – all this is an example of high construction craftsmanship.

Engineering Systems

The key challenge for engineers was to “fit” modern technologies into the historic space. Climate control and fire safety systems are designed to be as unobtrusive as possible and not disrupt the integrity of classical interiors.

Lighting plays an important role in creating an intimate atmosphere, using crystal chandeliers, sconces and hidden backlighting that emphasizes decor details.

Conceptual “Mehbud” Design for VIP CLUB PREMIER PALACE

For such an exquisite and historically significant space as VIP CLUB PREMIER PALACE, “Mehbud” can offer exclusive solutions that complement the classical interior.

• Visualization 1: Exclusive “Mehbud” ventilation grilles with classical-style ornamentation, integrated into wooden wall panels.
• Visualization 2: “Mehbud” Rack ceiling with “brass-like” coating in the bar area, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere.
• Visualization 3: Metal railings for internal stairs, made according to individual design, repeating historical motifs of the hotel interior.

#5 — First Casino (Network: Odesa, Lviv, Kyiv and other cities)

Architectural Profile

First Casino is one of the first companies to receive a KRAIL license and is actively developing a network of land-based establishments throughout Ukraine. Unlike unique flagship casinos, First Casino’s architectural strategy is to create a recognizable and scalable brand.

The design of their establishments, such as in the Gagarinn (Odesa) and Grand Hotel Lviv hotels, adapts to the architecture of the specific hotel but maintains key elements of corporate style: modernity, technological advancement, use of dynamic lighting and corporate colors. This creates a unified customer experience regardless of city.

Construction Achievements

The network’s main achievement is the speed and efficiency of deploying new halls. This indicates the presence of proven design solutions and the use of modular, standardized elements in construction and finishing. This approach reduces construction and renovation timeframes and ensures stable quality across all network establishments.

Engineering Systems

Network projects typically use standard engineering solutions, which optimizes both cost and implementation timeframes. Ventilation, security and lighting systems are designed to a unified standard, simplifying further operation and maintenance.

Conceptual “Mehbud” Design for First Casino

For network casinos where recognizability and implementation speed are important, “Mehbud” products are an ideal solution.

• Visualization 1: “Mehbud” cassette ceiling in First Casino corporate colors in the gaming hall.
• Visualization 2: Entrance group cladding with “Mehbud” panel facade to create a unified network style.
• Visualization 3: Internal partitions made of “Mehbud” metal slats for space zoning in the slot machine hall.

Architectural Case Studies: In-Depth Analysis

Case 1: Billionaire Casino — Alchemy of Luxury in Historical Context

Detailed analysis of Billionaire Casino reveals a strategy of creating a unique, intimate space that appeals to a sense of exclusivity. The declared “Renaissance” style is more of a marketing image than an accurate historical reconstruction.

In fact, the architects created an eclectic interior combining elements of classics, art deco and modern luxury. The use of expensive natural materials, such as polished mahogany for gaming tables and decorative elements, is key to creating an atmosphere of prestige.

Analysis of available photographs shows that great attention is paid to details: complex textile wallpapers, velvet furniture upholstery, heavy curtains and multi-level lighting with crystal chandeliers and hidden backlighting.

The main architectural challenge was to harmoniously integrate this lush, detail-rich interior into the modern, minimalist architecture of the InterContinental hotel. The solution was to create a “box within a box” – a completely autonomous space living by its own rules and aesthetics.

Case 2: Shangri La — Symphony of Classics and Modernity

Unlike the intimate Billionaire, Shangri La Casino bets on grandeur and scale. Location in the Fairmont Grand Hotel, a building with expressive neoclassical architecture, set the tone for the entire project. The casino design doesn’t try to copy historical styles, but rather interprets them in a modern way.

Spatial solutions on 1500 m² are key to the project’s success. Architects avoided creating a monotonous, gigantic hall, instead applying complex zoning. Using podiums, different types of flooring, translucent partitions and, most importantly, light allowed creating diverse zones: from loud and dynamic slot machine halls to quiet and respectable corners for card games.

This approach demonstrates a deep understanding of space psychology in the gambling business: it’s necessary to create an environment that simultaneously excites gambling passion and ensures comfort for prolonged stays.

Conclusions: The Future of Gambling Business Architecture in Ukraine

Analysis of Ukraine’s leading gambling establishments allows identifying key trends and forecasting future development directions of this unique commercial real estate segment. First, there’s obvious deep synergy between casino and hotel architecture where it’s located. This is not just a legislative requirement, but a powerful marketing tool creating a holistic premium product. Second, the high investment threshold and orientation toward wealthy clients creates sustainable demand for durable, quality and exclusive materials and construction solutions.

In the future, we can expect a gradual departure from copying purely classical interiors in favor of bolder, more eclectic and technological spaces. Integration of multimedia systems, dynamic lighting and “smart home” elements will become an integral part of design. At the same time, the importance of environmental friendliness and energy efficiency will increase, as even the premium segment strives to optimize operational costs and comply with global sustainable development trends.

In this context, Ukrainian manufacturers such as the “Mehbud” factory get a unique opportunity to become key partners in creating the architectural image of new Ukrainian gambling business. Their ability to offer innovative, customized and high-quality products – from complex ceiling systems to unique facade solutions – allows implementing the boldest projects. This not only contributes to the development of individual companies, but stimulates the entire construction industry, forming a new, modern Ukrainian architectural school capable of competing at the international level.