An In-Depth Exploration of Three Architectural Firms: Part 1 - YOD Group
- Vladyslav Alyeksyenko
- Sep 11
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 18
Not too long ago I posted on my Instagram a short list where I aimed to highlight impressive designers, Archviz artists and architects. That day I got a comment that it would have been nice to have a in depth look into what make those studios special, excel in their own niche and provide impressive and memorable designs/images. This blog post provides a deeper examination of three notable architectural firms: - YOD Group from Kyiv, Ukraine; - NORD Architects from Copenhagen, Denmark; - Edit! architects from Prague, Czech Republic. Each firm operates in a unique cultural and geographical context, yet they share a commitment to innovative design that responds to contemporary challenges. YOD Group excels in commercial and hospitality spaces amid Ukraine's dynamic environment, NORD Architects prioritizes sustainability and social issues in Scandinavia's progressive design landscape, and Edit! architects focuses on contextual integration within Prague's rich historical fabric. Drawing from their histories, philosophies, projects, and achievements, this analysis highlights their specialties, uniqueness, and meticulous attention to detail. The discussion is based on professional profiles, project documentation, and industry sources to ensure accuracy and depth.
YOD Group
I will start with the Interior Design company from Ukraine, that, in my opinion, has unprecedented level of attention to detail, feeling of materials, lighting and texture and I believe, they especially excel in the creative use of textures and "feel" of the furniture and materials. You will see it in the second image here - the example from Mountain Residence in Ivano-Frankivsk
History and Founding
YOD Group was established in 2004 in Kyiv by Volodymyr Nepiyvoda and Dmytro Bonesko, who served as founder and art director, respectively. Over the past two decades, the firm has evolved from a local design studio into an internationally recognized entity and expanding its portfolio. By 2022, they had completed over 150 projects, demonstrating resilience and growth in a competitive market. Their story reflects a progression from domestic focus to global outreach, with a team of experts boasting international experience.
Philosophy and Approach to Design
At its core, YOD Group's philosophy revolves around ambition and innovation, aiming to surpass local construction standards and deliver world-class architecture. They emphasize a comprehensive approach to hospitality design, blending functionality with immersive experiences. Their work is characterized by minimalism, unconventional material use, memorable imagery, and original techniques. This mindset allows them to create spaces that are not only aesthetically striking but also economically viable, prioritizing cost-effectiveness and return on investment. In a region where design often contends with practical constraints, YOD pushes boundaries to foster effective modern architecture. YOD's portfolio showcases meticulous attention to detail through thoughtful material choices and narrative-driven spaces. One notable project is Samna in Marbella, Spain, a modern restaurant that showcases Middle Eastern cuisine through the creative vision of Chef Meir Adoni. Located in the historic part of Marbella, the interior draws inspiration from the venue's surroundings, incorporating elements that blend cultural authenticity with contemporary design. Attention to detail is evident in the striking and inspired interiors, where every feature—from lighting to furnishings—contributes to an immersive dining experience that stuns visitors. This project highlights YOD's ability to adapt to international contexts while maintaining precision in execution.
Another significant undertaking is the Mountain Residence in Ivano-Frankivsk oblast, Ukraine, specifically in Polyanytsia village near Bukovel. This contemporary hotel, completed in 2025 with an area of 3595 m², is inspired by Carpathian legends and local traditions, seamlessly blending nature with modern design. The project includes various zones such as the lobby, conference hall for 270 guests, SPA on the top floor and rooftop, and restaurants like Le Grand and Teppan. Details like understated interiors in the conference areas and sanctuary-like elements in the SPA demonstrate YOD's focus on emotional rejuvenation and functional versatility, ensuring the design fosters a deep connection to the local mythology and environment.
The KINO restaurant in Mykolaiv, Ukraine, represents a postmodern fusion of a vintage cinema and a relaxed Italian eatery. Just look at this tile work! It's fantastic! Opened in 2025, the interior is shaped by the building's historical context as a former cinema, creating a space where two worlds collide. Attention to detail includes elements that evoke cinematic nostalgia, such as thematic decor and spatial arrangements that enhance the warmth of Italian dining. I especially love those lamps they used for the interior. This project exemplifies YOD's skill in adaptive reuse, transforming historical sites into vibrant, narrative-rich venues with precise integration of past and present.
Finally, the Emily Resort / Terra in Vynnyky town, Lviv region, Ukraine, features the Terra restaurant and Grand Emily Hotel components, completed in 2022 with the restaurant spanning 1152 m². The first thing that catches your eyes are the impressive glass bricks lit from inside. Strangely enough it makes me feel like I am in some kind of forest, with those large green tree trunks. This is the essence of what YOD is about - they are craftsmen of ambience, and extremely good ones at that.
Awards and Recognition
YOD Group has garnered significant accolades, including the Versailles Award in 2022, marking them as the first Ukrainian studio to receive this honor for commercial design excellence. In 2023, they won Interior Design Magazine's Best of Year Award for a boutique hotel project, underscoring their impact in hospitality. These recognitions affirm their ability to compete on an international stage. Also, they get an award just from me for being awesome!
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