Designer and architect Victoria Yakusha unveils her latest collection, GRUN,’ her second Curio presentation at Design Miami.
Yakusha’s Grun’ collection reflects her connection to nature, her Ukrainian heritage, and her animistic design philosophy. Inspired by the mythical forest being Grun’, [pronounced: groon’] which is said to inhabit the ancient forests of Ukrainian Polesia, the collection embodies timelessness, wisdom, and a sense of peace.
The forests and swamps of Polesia preserve echoes of humanity’s early history. These environments are not only remnants of the past but also ever-changing ecosystems. They serve as reminders that while nature is in constant flux, it remains a source of renewal and wisdom.
The collection exemplifies Yakusha’s belief that objects should evoke emotions beyond function. Her animistic philosophy—where objects, places, and beings carry a living essence—is reflected throughout. Using natural materials and traditional craftsmanship, the collection includes an armchair, bench, tables, chairs, a bed, and floor lamps—all designed to evoke the spirit of the forest. The unique forms embody Yakusha’s vision, with wide, solid bases rooted in centuries of memory, drawing energy from the earth and marshes, channeling it upward through antennae-like shapes that reach toward the sky and the future.
The collection also includes a limited-edition table (edition of 12 pieces). The table’s base, crafted from Yakusha’s signature eco-friendly ZTISTA material—an ecoconscious blend of clay, natural fibers, and organic biopolymer—is designed to resemble the rolling hills of Polissia. The hand-carved wooden tabletop captures the essence of a sunlit forest clearing, surrounded by hills and boulders—a mystical space where forest beings come together in harmony and contentment. Handcrafted with care, the pieces radiate the energy of the artisans, creating designs that feel alive and distinct. The textures evoke the forest’s natural details—from the surface of leaves and tree bark to the forms of mushrooms. The wood is intricately carved to mimic these organic textures, while the ZTISTA material mirrors the essence of bark.
Among the standout items are the Grun’ “Dewlit” chair and armchair, featuring handembroidered beaded accents that evoke the serene beauty of a morning forest, where dew glistens on moss, reflecting the soft light of dawn.
The Grun’ lamps combine Yakusha’s ZTISTA material with traditional Ukrainian blown glass, using the technique known as gutnitstvo, a practice that has been passed down through generations. When lit, the lamps cast a warm, soft glow, transforming the room into a serene and magical environment. Each lamp is handcrafted, with no two pieces exactly alike, reflecting the skill and artistry of its maker.
At the heart of Grun’, Victoria Yakusha weaves together a narrative of renewal, craftsmanship, and ancestral knowledge. Each piece is an expression of her connection to nature and her commitment to preserving traditional Ukrainian techniques. The use of natural materials, from the eco-conscious ZTISTA blend to hand-carved wood, bridges the past with the present, honoring the wisdom embedded in the earth while reimagining it for contemporary design. In Grun’, the forest comes alive—not just as inspiration, but as an active participant in shaping forms that carry the energy of the land.
Victoria Yakusha, Dec 3rd – Dec 8th, Design Miami.
About
Victoria Yakusha is a Ukrainian artist, architect, and designer, widely recognized as a pioneer of the live minimalism approach. As an ambassador of Ukrainian design on the global stage, she leads her eponymous architectural studio and the product design brand FAINA. Her innovative approach seamlessly merges traditional craftsmanship with modern design, drawing inspiration from nature and cultural heritage. Yakusha’s work is praised for its ability to tell stories through design, creating pieces that are both functional and emotionally evocative. @victoriayakusha
This project is supported by LU New York
