#15 From a call center to a modern training center x AKADEMIA CEZAR

How to combine an office, lecture hall, and back-of-house area in 54 m²?

Designing small and medium-sized commercial interiors often involves the trap of over-partitioning the space. Dividing 54 m² into smaller rooms would result in cramped cubicles that would feel suffocating.

Marta Rzońca opted for fluid functionality. The space was divided into zones while maintaining an open character and the possibility of flexible modification:

• Office zone (entrance): Kept in dark, atmospheric colors (deep navy blue and a burgundy ceiling). Since there is no access to natural light here, carefully designed artificial lighting plays a key role.
• Lecture hall: Bright (light gray), designed to stimulate students' focus and prevent drowsiness.
• Hidden back-of-house area: Behind an elegant burgundy curtain, a kitchenette and a blue bathroom for students are hidden.

Curtain instead of a partition wall – savings and acoustics

One of the most interesting tricks used in the project is the use of thick curtains instead of permanent partition walls or expensive glazing.

• Financial benefit: A glass wall could cost tens of thousands of zlotys, while a curtain costs only a small fraction of that amount.
• Acoustics: Fabrics absorb sound perfectly and eliminate echoes, which is crucial in training rooms.
• Flexibility: By opening the curtain, we gain a full space, allowing the lecture hall to be quickly expanded with additional rows of chairs for larger groups of students.

Color is free

It is worth remembering a universal lesson from this episode: painting walls in a bold color costs exactly the same as painting them plain white. The project utilized bold combinations (navy blue, burgundy, light blue), which create a unique atmosphere and completely transform the perception of the interior without requiring large financial investments.

The role of details and materials: From wall moldings to the Thalia collection

In conversation with the host, Marta Rzońca also revealed what solutions work for people who want to achieve a similar effect in their projects. The walls gained rhythm thanks to vertical decorative elements.

Although the original design used classic 20 mm wide wall moldings, today an excellent alternative is the modern Thalia panel collection. It allows for spectacular light-and-shadow effects on the wall. Flexible Thalia Flex wall panels are a great replacement for traditional wallpaper – unlike wallpaper, they are more durable, easy to clean (after painting with good paint, they can be washed), and if necessary, allow for a quick interior makeover by changing the color.

Most common mistakes in commercial interior design

When planning a space for work or study, it is easy to make several costly mistakes. Here is what to watch out for:

• Lack of a coherent functional layout: Neglecting the function of a room leads to dysfunctional layouts in which users feel uncomfortable.
• Lighting not suited to the function: Using overly dark colors and atmospheric lighting in places requiring concentration (e.g., lecture halls) promotes fatigue and drowsiness.
• Rigid budget divisions: Opting out of cheaper, more flexible solutions (such as textiles or bold paint) in favor of expensive permanent structures.

Summary

The transformation described in the new episode of Akademia Cezar proves that space or budget constraints can be turned into an advantage. Thoughtful functionality, boldness in using colors, and smart materials (such as acoustic textiles and modern decorative moldings) make it possible to create an interior that makes a spectacular before & after impression.

We encourage you to visit the Cezar official blog and news section to discover more inspiring arrangements and watch the full video on our YouTube channel!

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main advantages of using curtains instead of partition walls in small offices?

Curtains are significantly cheaper to install than glass or masonry walls, they absorb sound perfectly and eliminate echoes, and they also allow for dynamically expanding or closing off space depending on current needs.

Why were light colors used in the lecture area and dark colors in the office area?

Light colors in the lecture hall promote concentration and stimulate students, preventing drowsiness. Dark, atmospheric colors in the office area create an intimate, professional atmosphere.

Does painting walls in intense colors involve higher costs?

No. The cost of labor and paint is the same regardless of whether you choose classic white or deep navy blue and burgundy.

What can replace classic wall moldings in modern interiors?

An excellent choice is the new Thalia panel collection, which introduces a unique rhythm and play of light and shadow to the wall, while also being easy to clean and paint.