The BANDURA vase

Sustainable simplicity: embracing live minimalism in design and lifestyle

The BANDURA vase

In a world increasingly crowded with objects and noise, the philosophy of "live minimalism" offers a refreshing alternative—one that brings both depth and clarity. This unique approach, pioneered by Ukrainian designer Victoria Yakusha, merges the ancient with the modern, the organic with the sustainable, and the traditional with the future. At its core, live minimalism is a design philosophy that seeks to answer two profound questions: "Who are we?" and "What will we leave behind?" By embracing this approach, we can achieve sustainable simplicity in both our design choices and our way of life, fostering a deep connection between ourselves, our environment, and our heritage.

The essence of live minimalism

Live minimalism is not just an aesthetic choice; it is a way of living and thinking. It is about stripping away the unnecessary to reveal the essential, but it does so with a deep respect for nature and history. The philosophy is rooted in the belief that every object should tell a story—one that is connected to the past and projects into the future. This approach is a cornerstone of sustainable simplicity, which seeks to integrate minimalist design with eco-conscious living.


The "live" aspect of live minimalism reflects a reverence for nature and the beauty of its imperfections. It embraces the organic, the raw, and the unrefined. This is not about creating sterile, lifeless spaces; instead, it is about crafting environments that feel alive, that breathe, and that connect us to the earth. The materials used in live minimalist designs are often "live" materials—those that age gracefully, bear the marks of time, and are deeply connected to the natural world. Think of wood that tells the story of the tree it came from or clay that remembers the hands that shaped it. This approach embodies the principles of eco-friendly minimalism, where simplicity in design aligns with sustainable living.

On the other hand, the "minimalism" in live minimalism embodies purity and simplicity. It is a commitment to creating spaces and objects that are free of excess, distilled to their most essential forms. This minimalism is not cold or impersonal; it is thoughtful, intentional, and deeply rooted in sustainability. It is about creating things that last, that serve a purpose, and that contribute to a better future. This philosophy supports a minimalist lifestyle that values simplicity and sustainability in every aspect of life, from minimalist home design to eco-conscious simplicity.

Process of handcrafting the SONYAH lamp

Process of handcrafting the SONYAH lamp

Roots and heritage

Live minimalism is deeply connected to the past, to the stories of our ancestors, and to the traditions that have been passed down through generations. This connection to history is about understanding who we are and where we come from. It is about recognizing that our identities are shaped by the land we live on, the people who came before us, and the crafts and traditions that have been handed down to us. This perspective aligns with a low-impact lifestyle that values sustainable interior design and resource-efficient design principles.

Victoria Yakusha's designs often incorporate traditional Ukrainian craftsmanship, using techniques that have been practised for centuries. This is a way of honouring the past, keeping these traditions alive, and ensuring that they are not lost in the face of modernity. The use of natural materials—wood, clay, stone, glass—further connects her work to the earth and to the traditions of working with what is sustainable and local. This connection emphasises simple living and sustainability, where the past and present meet to create designs that are both beautiful and environmentally responsible.

But this connection to the past is not about recreating the old; it is about reinterpreting it in a way that is relevant for today. Yakusha's designs are rooted in tradition, but they are also forward-looking. They are not just about preserving the past; they are about bringing it into the present in a way that speaks to contemporary life and needs. This blend of tradition and innovation exemplifies sustainable design, where the wisdom of the past informs the creativity of the future.

Weaving process

Weaving process

Craftsmanship

Craftsmanship plays a vital role in live minimalism. In a world where mass-produced items dominate the market, the art of handcrafting stands as a beacon of authenticity, connection, and sustainability. Handcrafted objects possess a unique energy—an energy imbued by the master who created them. This energy is not just a byproduct of the labour involved but a reflection of the love, care, and skill invested in the object. This approach highlights the importance of mindful consumption, where each item is chosen for its quality, longevity, and connection to the maker.

Using ancient techniques, often passed down through generations, artisans create pieces that are more than just functional or decorative—they are embodiments of history, culture, and a deep connection to the materials and processes used. These handcrafted objects resonate with the soul in a way that mass-produced items simply cannot. They carry the fingerprints of their creators, the story of their making, and the spirit of the tradition they are a part of. This respect for craftsmanship aligns with green minimalism, where the focus is on sustainable simplicity and zero-waste simplicity.

In live minimalism, the emphasis on craftsmanship is a rejection of the disposable culture that pervades modern life. Instead of objects that are meant to be used and discarded, live minimalism celebrates those that are made to last, to be cherished, and to grow more beautiful with time. The ancient techniques employed in crafting these objects are not just methods; they are rituals that connect the past with the present and future, ensuring that the knowledge and skills of our ancestors continue to live on. This approach is central to sustainable living, where each choice reflects a commitment to eco-conscious living and the preservation of tradition.

The ZEMLYA tapestry

The ZEMLYA tapestry

Sustainability

While live minimalism is deeply connected to the past, it is also focused on the future. It asks the question, "What will we leave behind?" In a world where mass production and disposable culture are the norm, live minimalism offers an alternative. It is about creating objects and spaces that are sustainable, built to last, and have a minimal impact on the environment. This focus on sustainability is essential for those who practise a minimalist lifestyle and seek to reduce their ecological footprint.

This future-oriented minimalism is about more than just reducing waste; it is about rethinking the way we design and make things. It is about considering the entire lifecycle of an object—from the materials used to the way it is made, to how it will be used and eventually disposed of. Live minimalism is about creating things that are not just beautiful but also responsible. This philosophy supports sustainable living tips, encouraging individuals to make choices that benefit both their homes and the planet.

One of the key principles of live minimalism is the use of materials that are renewable, have a low environmental impact, and are biodegradable or recyclable. It also means using materials that age well, becoming more beautiful with time, and that can be passed down from generation to generation. In this way, live minimalism is about creating a legacy—leaving behind something that is not just valuable in itself but also contributes to the well-being of future generations. This principle is central to resource-efficient design and sustainable interior design, where every element is chosen for its durability and environmental impact.

The aesthetic

The aesthetic of live minimalism is characterised by purity of form and a celebration of natural beauty. It is about stripping away the unnecessary, the decorative, and the superficial to reveal the essence of an object or space. This is not about minimalism for its own sake; it is about creating spaces and objects that feel alive, are connected to the earth, and resonate with our deepest sense of what is true and meaningful. This approach reflects eco-conscious simplicity, where beauty is found in the natural and the unadorned.

Victoria Yakusha's work is a perfect example of this aesthetic. Her designs are often simple and understated, but they are also rich in texture, warmth, and meaning. They are inspired by nature, the landscape of Ukraine, and the traditions of Ukrainian craftsmanship. Her furniture and homeware pieces, for example, often feature organic shapes, raw materials, and a muted colour palette that reflects the natural world. This aesthetic aligns with minimalist architecture, where the focus is on simplicity and harmony with the environment.

But there is also a modernity to Yakusha's designs—a sense that they are not just about the past but also about the future. Her work is both timeless and contemporary, rooted in tradition but also forward-looking. It reflects her belief that design should not just be about creating beautiful objects but about creating objects that have a deeper meaning, tell a story, and contribute to a better world. This belief is at the heart of sustainable design, where every element is chosen with intention and care.

The BANDURA vase

The BANDURA vase

A way of living

Live minimalism is more than just a design philosophy; it is a way of living. It is about being mindful of the choices we make, respecting the earth and our ancestors, and creating a future that is sustainable and meaningful. It reminds us that the things we create and the spaces we inhabit are not just reflections of who we are but also of what we value and what we want to leave behind. This approach supports simple living and sustainability, where each decision reflects a commitment to a low-impact lifestyle.

This way of living requires a shift in perspective—from seeing ourselves as consumers of products to seeing ourselves as stewards of the earth and guardians of tradition. It is about recognizing that every object we bring into our lives has a story, a history, and an impact. Live minimalism challenges us to choose wisely, to honor the craftsmanship and ancient techniques that bring objects to life, and to embrace a simplicity that is rich in meaning, connection, and purpose. This philosophy is central to sustainable living, where every choice contributes to a healthier, more sustainable world.

In the end, live minimalism is not just about creating a more beautiful home or a more sustainable lifestyle; it is about creating a life that is deeply rooted in the values we hold dear—values of sustainability, craftsmanship, tradition, and respect for the natural world. It is a call to live more intentionally, to surround ourselves with things that truly matter, and to leave behind a legacy that is both meaningful and lasting. This approach to life and design reflects the principles of zero-waste simplicity, where every choice is made with care for the planet and future generations.