Blending heritage, sustainability,

and minimalism to create transformative spaces

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Victoria Yakusha, one of Ukraine’s most influential architects and designers, is redefining the language of contemporary interiors. Her work unites deep-rooted cultural traditions with sustainable design and minimalist aesthetics, resulting in spaces that feel both ancient and entirely new.

As the founder of FAINA, a design house focused on handcrafted furniture, lighting and decor, and her architectural studio YAKUSHA, she brings a holistic, earth-centred approach to modern living. Her signature lies in a quiet power, expressed through natural materials like wood, clay and her own biodegradable blend, Ztista, which translates as “made of dough” in Ukrainian. Her designs honour imperfection, texture and tactility, always returning to nature as muse.

A Sanctuary in Kyiv: Victoria Yakusha’s Family Home

In her own Kyiv apartment, Yakusha gives form to her philosophy of “live design” — a style rooted in authenticity, purpose and emotional resonance.

The home, created for a young family, embodies clarity and comfort. Natural textures dominate the palette: timber, stone, and clay create a soothing rhythm, while clean architectural lines maintain an open, flowing atmosphere.

There are no baseboards, no superfluous finishes. Hidden doors and seamless transitions contribute to a sense of uninterrupted calm. Wide parquet flooring is arranged in an artistic pattern, and soft lighting enhances the sense of warmth and spaciousness.

Every design decision is intentional, from the layout to the curated furniture, creating a harmonious space that feels lived-in, grounded and deeply personal.

The New Office: A Human-Centred Future

Beyond the home, Yakusha is helping reshape how we think about the workplace. In an era where well-being, sustainability and cultural relevance are more important than ever, her approach introduces a gentler, more intuitive vision for office life.

At Unit Space, a contemporary office in Ukraine, these values are brought to life. The entrance hall feels more like a cultural lounge than a traditional lobby, inviting visitors into a warm and intentional environment. Lighting adapts throughout the day to mimic natural rhythms, alertness in the morning, softness in the evening, supporting biological and emotional needs.

Even technology plays a human role. At reception, a responsive AI glass panel named Tina greets guests, subtly blending digital innovation into the overall narrative. The result is not just a workplace, but an immersive space that encourages creativity, connection and calm.

Where Design Becomes a Living Dialogue

Victoria Yakusha stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation. Her work challenges the boundaries between architecture, art and design, offering a holistic vision where sustainability and soulfulness coexist.

Whether crafting a serene family home or an intuitive workspace, she continues to prove that thoughtful design can transform the way we live, work and feel. Her spaces are more than beautiful — they’re vessels of culture, care and future-thinking values.

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