NARODNYI DIM is a place in the heart of the capital of Ukraine, on Yaroslaviv Val near the Golden Gate, which is well known to Kyiv residents and guests as a treasure trove of authentic Ukrainian products and handmade souvenirs. It is a space that brings together all friends of Ukraine in a cozy atmosphere. So, when the idea to update the design of the premises in accordance with modern trends and at the same time conveying the value of Ukrainian tradition came up, MAKHNO studios were invited to implement it.

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CHALLENGE

To make NARODNYI DIM, on the one hand, a more thoughtful and functional trading platform, and on the other hand, an impressive art space that conveys not only beauty but also deep Ukrainian meanings.

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STYLE

We decided that the place where the artworks are exhibited should become an art object to some extent. At the same time, it shouldn't draw attention to itself, but rather create the right context and mood.

This is a story about a modern progressive Ukrainian identity that grows out of a deep tradition. So we can see that here we have mazanka walls, vintage wooden structures from an old Ukrainian manor, as well as natural materials and colors combined with the principles of modern functional minimalism.

This is what we call the Newest Ukrainian Style.

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FUNCTIONALITY 

Functionality is not just a buzzword here. After all, the challenge we set ourselves as designers is to make sure that the space is not only beautiful, but also works well for its intended purpose. Let's not forget that this is a store. So, thanks to the design, we:

• Emphasized product categories. That is, we developed separate places and shelves for each category. We made sure that each product looked as favorable as possible, but all this was combined into a single harmonious ensemble. For example, books look better on wooden shelves, and ceramics on metal ones. Dresses are hung on curly longitudinal tubes (because it's more aesthetically pleasing and romantic), and icons are hung on a perforated wall (because it's more practical for multi-format compositions). We have come up with separate exhibition formats for high value items. And in general, something unique for each category.

• We created zoning. Now the space is divided into several sectors, which are easy to navigate. By the way, we have also become a bit of merchandisers and stylists here, because we have redesigned not only the space but also the placement of product categories, i.e. optimized the customer's path and experience.

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FITTING ZONE 

There is a functional fitting room in the middle. Functional because it can be quickly removed by making an open space, or put back at will, and even divided into different booths.

The central decoration of the project is a huge mirror, around which we created an art wall of QUADROPOD blocks so that nothing would interfere with admiring the new products. By the way, these construction blocks have recently received the world's most prominent design award - the Red Dot Award.

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“Our renovated space has become a place where modern ideas and folk traditions are combined. Moreover, it is a place where traditions become a trend!” - the management of the Narodnyi dim Ukraine store