A Ukrainian design studio has transformed the traditional office environment by creating a workspace that emphasizes residential comfort over corporate sterility. Between the Walls, led by designer and co-founder Victoria Karieva, recently completed the Mislad office project in Kyiv, Ukraine, demonstrating how home-like elements can enhance productivity while providing employees with a welcoming and nurturing work environment.
"People no longer want sterile work environments, they crave warmth, comfort, and a sense of belonging," explains Karieva. "From the earliest planning stages we focused on designing a space that doesn't impose pressure, but instead calms, inspires, and restores inner balance." This philosophy guided the entire design process, resulting in an office that challenges conventional corporate aesthetics.
The office features a dynamic open-plan area positioned near the entrance, creating an immediate sense of openness and accessibility. A standout feature is the hexagonal-shaped meeting room, which incorporates glass doors, double-layered curtains, and plush carpeting to provide both visual softness and superior acoustic performance. This geometric form adds architectural interest while maintaining the residential comfort that defines the project.
Art plays a central role in the space's identity, with the team drawing inspiration from the building's historical context. They commissioned artist Anastasiia Leliuk, known for her poetic gestures and mythological themes, to reimagine existing architectural components and create new elements that evoke classic detailing. Leliuk's most striking contribution is a large-scale bas-relief in the kitchen section, crafted from segmented papier-mâché and depicting fantasy beasts that bring whimsy and storytelling into the workspace.
The office is organized into four distinct work areas, each designed with its own unique atmosphere and character. The room positioned closest to a neighboring synagogue features warm yellow tones that echo the facade of the house of worship, creating a respectful dialogue with the surrounding neighborhood. This thoughtful color choice demonstrates how the designers considered the broader urban context in their decision-making process.
The director's office occupies a more secluded area of the space and serves as a minimalist canvas enhanced by carefully selected eclectic touches. Dark blue shelves reminiscent of Donald Judd's aesthetic principles are mounted on the walls, positioned alongside an upcycled armchair featuring rich leather upholstery. This combination of contemporary minimalism and vintage elements creates a sophisticated yet approachable executive environment.
The color palette throughout the office reflects a sophisticated understanding of how hues affect mood and productivity. Pistachio and eucalyptus green tints are thoughtfully paired with various blues and earthy neutrals to create a soothing, nature-inspired atmosphere. Burgundy and black accents add structure and visual intensity, preventing the softer tones from becoming too passive or bland.
Material selection reinforces the project's commitment to both aesthetics and sustainability. The designers incorporated a carefully curated mix of metal, marble, and glass elements that provide just enough sheen and sophistication without overwhelming the residential character. Preserved brick and reclaimed wood play central roles in maintaining the building's original character while supporting the studio's commitment to environmental responsibility and material reuse.
The sustainable approach extends beyond material selection to encompass a broader philosophy of adaptive reuse and environmental consciousness. By preserving existing architectural elements and incorporating reclaimed materials, the project demonstrates how contemporary office design can honor historical context while meeting modern functional requirements.
The result is a workspace that achieves what Karieva describes as "effortless fluidity," enriching the daily experience of employees through a careful balance of art, storytelling, and functional design. The integration of mythological themes, residential comfort elements, and sustainable practices creates an environment that supports both productivity and well-being.
"Our approach results in a space that feels both inviting and professional, modern yet emotionally resonant," notes Karieva. This philosophy represents a broader shift in workplace design, where employee satisfaction and mental health are recognized as crucial factors in organizational success. The Mislad office serves as a compelling example of how thoughtful design can transform the traditional office paradigm, creating spaces that nurture rather than constrain human creativity and collaboration.
