It is housed in the former building of the House of the Merchants’ Assembly, which was built in 1882 to the design of the famous Kyiv architect Volodymyr Nikolaiev. This place was popular among Kyivites as it hosted masquerade balls, charity lotteries, literary and musical evenings. Ukrainian composer Mykola Lysenko who was one of the organisers of the Philharmonic Society played an important role in Kyiv Philharmonic activities.
The Column Hall of the Philharmonic, which has a rich history, was named in his honour in 1962. Prominent pianists and opera singers from many countries gave concerts there. In 1994, the philharmonic was given the status of a national institution. Along with active concert activities, international competitions and festivals, various cultural, artistic and public events are regularly held within its walls.