Ukraine’s Interior Innovation Triumphs at Dezeen Awards 2025
Ukrainian designer Nastia Mirzoyan has won the prestigious international Dezeen Awards 2025 in the category of “Emerging Interior Designer of the Year.”
The Gaze reports on it, referring to Live.Pravda.
Nastia Mirzoyan, a Ukrainian designer and architect, who was recognized at one of the most influential global awards in architecture and design — the Dezeen Awards 2025. The jury praised her ability to combine a deep awareness of context with a playfulness that challenges traditional approaches to interiors.
“In dark times, this Ukrainian designer has emerged as a leading light. Her interiors demonstrate an acute awareness of context, but with a playfulness that challenges tradition,” the judges commented. “From bespoke furniture to clever surface design, she has proven her talent for creating spaces that are both exciting and welcoming.”
The designer specializes in residential, hotel, and commercial spaces. Among her notable projects in Kyiv are the Asian bistro Kitsunya, the Njoy space and sex shop, and the cocktail bar Bursa. Each of these projects demonstrates a unique approach to design: from interactive constructions and unconventional architectural solutions to creating an inclusive and playful atmosphere.
The bistro Kitsunya was created on the site of a former nightclub that had to close due to the consequences of the war. The new owners, working together with the chef, aimed to realize a long-held dream — opening a modern bistro with Asian cuisine. The space covers 56 m², and the designer transformed it into a functional, stylish, and recognizable interior despite a limited budget.
The project was implemented under conditions of labor shortages due to mobilization and frequent power outages in the summer of 2024. Despite these challenges, the team managed to create an interior that leaves a lasting impression.
Bursa Bar reflects Japanese culture through simplicity of forms and the use of natural materials, particularly plywood. The main design idea is to create a space that resembles a musical instrument, where visitors can experience an atmosphere of sound and rhythm. The interior combines clean forms and warm textures, creating a harmonious and interactive environment for relaxation.
The war in Ukraine has affected local businesses, creating challenges for designers working with limited budgets and resources. Despite these obstacles, Ukrainian designers like Mirzoyan are gaining international recognition for their creativity and resilience.
Her work illustrates how contemporary Ukrainian design can merge cultural heritage with modern trends. Mirzoyan’s success highlights the growing influence of Ukraine’s design community on the global stage.
Read more on The Gaze: Four Design Projects From Ukraine Are Shortlisted For The Best of Year Awards 2023