L’Oréal Academy

In the beauty industry, professional education drives brand loyalty and market influence. As techniques evolve, brands must invest in continuous learning to maintain relationships with stylists and beauty professionals. L’Oréal sought to replace an outdated training facility with a destination that would support this strategic imperative. The new academy needed to accommodate education, technical training, and studios within a single environment. Located within a shopping mall, the site’s deep floor plate and limited natural light required thoughtful design to balance privacy with visibility.

Gensler reimagined the former retail space as a purpose-built learning and engagement hub adjacent to L’Oréal’s headquarters. The design maximizes natural light through added glazing and high ceiling volumes, addressing the site’s deep floor plate. A shared reception acts as a central connector between three distinct program areas. Flexible classrooms accommodate varying group sizes, while dedicated studios provide specialized equipment for hands-on training, as well as spaces for filming and social media production. A neutral palette allows the space to adapt across L’Oréal’s multibrand portfolio, supporting evolving learning formats and evolving uses.

The L’Oréal Academy significantly increases capacity for professional training, enabling higher volumes of participants and more immersive, hands-on learning experiences. Consolidating programs into a single, accessible location streamlines operations and enhances brand visibility. Beyond professional education, the academy amplifies L’Oréal’s brand and deepens relationships with stylists and beauty professionals who directly influence consumers. By making education central to its brand strategy, L’Oréal strengthens its market position and drives sustained business growth.