Mark Design Studios completes new cosmetology building for Sewanhaka Central High School District

Floral Park, NY The Sewanhaka Central High School District has officially opened a new, standalone cosmetology building at Sewanhaka High School in Floral Park, replacing the district’s former cosmetology classrooms located inside the main high school building and now providing students with a dedicated, professional-grade environment that mirrors a real-world salon experience.

The modern, purpose-built structure was designed to support Sewanhaka’s growing Cosmetology Program, which prepares students for New York State licensing and careers in the beauty and personal care industry.

The 5,200 s/f single-story building, designed by MDS Architecture of Hicksville, features two cosmetology classrooms. Each classroom is equipped with 24 individual hairdresser stations, mirrors, chairs, and electrical outlets for blow dryers, curling irons, and other styling tools. It also includes four hair washing stations, a pedicure station, 24 manicure stations, a fully operational color bar, individual student lockers, and a welcoming lobby area where clients can wait before their appointments.

“This project represents the best of what design in education can achieve — creating an environment that looks and feels like a professional salon, while still functioning as a dynamic classroom,” said Michael Mark, president of MDS Architecture. “We wanted to give students a place that inspires confidence, supports skill development, and prepares them for successful, lifelong careers.”

The new cosmetology facility allows students to work with real clients from the community, practicing proper cosmetology techniques in a setting that replicates the standards and workflow of a professional salon. The result is a meaningful, hands-on experience that bridges the gap between the classroom and the workplace.

“It's not every day that a school district gets to open a new building, and this is a game-changer for our students,” said Regina Agrusa, superintendent of Schools for the Sewanhaka Central High School District. “We are thrilled to be able to provide this opportunity to have a state-of-the-art professional cosmetology building as part of our Career and Technical Education program. The students are so excited, and there's just such positive energy about this project.” 

MDS collaborated closely with district administrators, educators, and program instructors to design a space that is functional, safe, and aligned with industry standards. The firm’s experience in educational design — blending aesthetics, performance, and practicality — is reflected throughout the new facility, from its modern finishes to its efficient layout and natural lighting.

“This project underscores the importance of user input in design,” said Irene Yim, vice president at MDS Architecture. “Before we ever put pen to paper, we engaged the educators and students who would ultimately use the space. Their needs and perspectives guided every design decision — because the success of a building isn’t measured by its architecture alone, but by how its end users experience and embrace it. Seeing teachers and students smile and use the space today was truly the most rewarding outcome.”