UNIT SPACE. OFFICE B14

Year: 2022

Area: 350 sq m

Location: Kyiv, Ukraine

The minimalist office in the Unit City complex is designed following the “live minimalism” philosophy—the key approach of the Yakusha studio. “Live minimalism” entails working with environmentally sound solutions, employing local materials and harmonising old traditional techniques with modern laconic forms

The main goal for this project was to create a minimalist, yet very sensual, unique space.

In this laconic interior, rounded forms are balanced with crisp graphic lines and contrasts of volumes. The uneven finish of the walls, inspired by the ancient Ukrainian technique known as ‘mazanka,’ infuses cultural depth into the space. This slightly archetypal aesthetics is balanced with dark, graphic lines delineating the junction of the walls and the ceiling.

The reception area is lit by soft natural light from the meeting room. The stone surface seems to cradle the reception desk, creating an illusion of weightlessness. A bubbly chandelier is hanging above the bulky front desk to offset it.

The waiting area welcomes visitors with a textile comfortable couch. The simple geometric shape is softened by the lines of the coffee table and the SONIAH floor lamp, created by Yakusha's own furniture brand FAINA.

The interplay of opposites is a key element of Yakusha studio’s approach

Behind the reception, there’s a ceiling light that resembles a cave crater. It captures attention by mimicking the hues and patterns of the sky, providing a refreshing break from the ordinary. Positioned beneath this unique light is a large round table, echoing the crater’s shape. Designed by Victoria Yakusha’s own furniture brand, FAINA, the table features a thermo wood top and a base made from Ztista—a sustainable material invented by Victoria Yakusha, crafted from clay, hay, cellulose, wooden chips and biopolymer. Completing the scene are three-legged grey chairs by Bentley, which soften the contrast between the light walls and the dark table

“For me, ‘live minimalism’ blends two essential ingredients. First, there’s the living spirit—the soul—of the interior or design piece. It’s about the story behind it, the emotional connection it holds for its owner. On the other side, we have the clean, minimalistic approach—no room for unnecessary details. It’s a delicate balance,” — Victoria Yakusha

By incorporating natural materials, plants, and organic shapes into the interior, Yakusha studio creates a seamless blend between work and personal space. It’s about more than just aesthetics—it’s about fostering a connection with the living environment of the office. These ‘live’ spaces encourage us to engage not only visually, but also on a sensory level