Business Center 'Akademia' Lobbies Refresh

Location: Business Center 'Akademia' — Platonov Street, Minsk.

Short description

Minimal-intervention redesign of the A and B lobbies at 'Akademia' business center in Minsk, providing bold visual upgrades with minimal construction work. Solutions prioritized quick, dust-free installation and strong visual impact for fully operational premises.

Concept and vision

In lobby A Concept 1 proposed expressive copper-colored metal panels for the lifts and reception, creating a premium and high-impact look with bold geometric lines and glossy surfaces. While visually striking, the owner prioritized practicality and minimal disruption for an operating center. Therefore, Concept 2 was realized: large-format Laminam porcelain stoneware in deep bronze with slim brass inlays delivers a refined, high-tech accent, combining durability, rapid installation, and easy maintenance. The look is completed with lush green walls, sculptural lighting, and a sleek reception desk, offering strong aesthetics with minimal construction and maximum efficiency.

Concept 1 — Building 'A'

Concept 2 — Building 'A'

In lobby 'B', the task was to create bold accents without extensive works. The project introduced oversized stenciled geometric wall graphics — contrasting black lines on light backgrounds — for instant visual energy, complemented by modular planters and lush greenery. This composition was used by both the reception and main staircase, creating continuity across arrival and waiting zones. All décor was executed with minimal disruption, using prefabricated elements, fast adhesives, and easy-to-mount planters.

Design highlights

— Seamless large-format Laminam panels imitating metal, with crisp thin metallic inserts for a “tech” effect in lobby 'A'.

— Living “green wall” feature adds a fresh natural counterpoint to the strict geometry and metallic textures.

— Monolithic reception desk in matching textured finish.

— Matte black, gold, and white minimalist pendant lighting for sculptural effect.

— Oversized decorative stenciled murals and grouped concrete planters in lobby 'B'.

— Mobile planting and mural techniques chosen for speed and no-mess installation, suitable for busy business center environments.

Implementation

All work prioritized efficiency and minimal disruption. Components such as thin panels, adhesive murals, and ready-made planters were selected to reduce noise, dust, and installation time. Effect was further maximized by clustering accents around arrival, lift, and waiting zones.

Project implementation — Building 'A'

Project implementation — Building 'B'

Role and responsibility

Lead Designer: concept and material development, detailed planning of all upgrades, supervision of execution, direct communication with contractors, and hands-on control throughout all phases for guaranteed result.