L’Oréal Professional Products is betting big on the future of hair education—and Hudson Yards is where that vision comes to life.
This month, they officially opened the new L’Oréal Academy, a 13,000-square-foot flagship space designed to reimagine how the professional hair industry learns, collaborates, and sets trends. More cultural hub than classroom, the Academy merges runway-level artistry, creator culture, and high-tech education under one roof—signalling a clear shift in how professional beauty is being positioned in 2026 and beyond.
At the opening, guests moved through immersive brand experiences, an artistic runway show, and a ceremonial haircut that framed the Academy as both a creative destination and a statement of intent.
Located in Hudson Yards, the Academy replaces the long-standing Redken Exchange on Fifth Avenue, consolidating professional education across L’Oréal’s salon brand portfolio into a single, purpose-built space steps from the company’s U.S. headquarters. Designed by Gensler, the environment was engineered with precision in mind—from true-color lighting that mirrors real-world salon conditions to modular classrooms and livestream-ready technology built for global reach.
The Academy will host more than 30,000 classes annually, led by over 750 artists and educators, spanning foundational training to elite certifications.
Education pathways include advanced color techniques, design, and business-focused programming, with hybrid masterclasses reaching over 2,000 stylists per session.
In addition to technical education, the space is also dedicated to relevance. Influencer-led programming and creator partnerships are baked into the model, allowing top industry voices to host branded classes that blend education, visibility, and revenue. It’s a reflection of how the hair industry now operates at the intersection of craft, content, and culture.
Sustainability and accessibility were also built into the Academy’s foundation. The space meets LEED Gold standards, incorporates water-saving fixtures, and features ADA-compliant workstations throughout. Anchoring the design is a custom art installation by New York legend Eric Haze, bridging street art and high fashion—an intentional nod to the city and the creative communities that shape it.
For L’Oréal Professional Products, the Academy represents more than a physical expansion. With over a century in the salon industry and a reach that touches nearly a third of U.S. hairstylists annually, the company is positioning education as its most powerful long-term investment.
By centralizing learning, embracing creator culture, and designing an experience that feels closer to fashion week than continuing education, the L’Oréal Academy signals a new direction for professional beauty education in 2026.
