When Artem Zverev and Artur Sharf crossed paths thirteen years ago at architecture school in Kyiv, they instantly connected over their global ambition and desire to learn by doing. Today, they find themselves at the helm of Yodezeen, an award-winning design studio which, in the words of Sharf, “runs rather than walks.” Yodezeen now has five offices on three continents where they spearhead an impressive breadth of work including a resort in the Maldives, a speakeasy bar in Manhattan, and a myriad of customized restaurants and private residences.
When it comes to methodology, Yodezeen prides itself on collaborating with the end-user to implement its vision from start to finish. Sharf comments that:
“We are not just architects who draw pretty pictures, we are more than interior designers, we know how to make each and every detail a reality.”
While the firm does not take on projects smaller than 3000 square feet, it seems the sky is the limit for scalability. When asked about dream projects, Sharf shared his aspiration to create large-scale multi-use spaces such as train stations, residential complexes or a museum of modern art.
Drive, enthusiasm and a personalized hands-on approach
One of the benefits of starting their firm at the age of twenty is now, thirteen years later, Yodezeen’s founders have both the ingenuity of their youth and a decade of honing their skills and experience. When Yodezeen started, the personalized touch characteristic of a small studio was integral to its operations, and even now with over 160 employees, Sharf and Zverev have managed to preserve what Zverev refers to as the “small studio soul” which has spurred their success and expansion. The firm’s current size enables it to manage many different projects at once, because projects are overseen by different specialized teams at each stage of their development, with constant oversight from the founders.
Sharf and Zverev are firm believers in learning by doing, emphasizing the importance of immersive research and analysis. For instance, when delving into the design of a Manhattan speakeasy resto-bar, the founders personally visited both the target space and similar establishments, engaging with owners, chefs, and patrons to understand the nuances of such a space, and how each feature impacts the overall experience. Immersion in the site and working side by side with the end user ensures that every project is rooted in a deep understanding of its context and purpose.
When asked if the war in Ukraine has affected the studio, Sharf shared that if anything, it has drawn their attention farther afield and spurred growth. Yodezeen’s ability to open and operationalize a large Warsaw office in the two weeks following the start of the war is emblematic of the hustle and ingenuity it puts into all projects.
Synthesizing the unexpected: International inspiration meets local color
Working on projects on several continents has exposed Yodezeen to a diversity of styles and approaches which enable it to combine elements in fresh and unexpected ways. For example, the firm is currently designing a restaurant that combines Japanese and Greek themes. Zverev explained how he designed the restaurant to “incorporate authentic carved totems to capture the vivid essence of Japan, as well as clay wall decorations to cultivate a relaxed atmosphere inspired by traditional Greek houses.”
While Yodezeen’s menu of possibilities is thoroughly global, the studio also recognizes the importance of integrating and respecting local surroundings. Their Montane Ranch project in Aspen Colorado encapsulates this approach. The ranch is a sprawling 300,000-acre estate that blurs the boundaries between nature and architecture, creating a captivating fusion of rustic charm and contemporary design. The ranch encompasses a state-of-the-art stable and a workshop, which contribute full functionality and a modern touch. In addition, a magnificent man-made accent lake with small waterfalls serves as the centerpiece that enhances the idyllic beauty of the area’s natural landscape.
Breaking into the U.S. Market
Yodezeen first took on the U.S. market eight years ago with an apartment project in Miami. Since then, the firm has experienced a gradual expansion and currently has completed projects in New York, New Jersey, South Florida, and Colorado.
For Sharf and Zverev, being a part of the U.S. market meant immersing themselves in the creative process by working with local sites, people and cultures while expanding their social circles. They approached Miami not only as a place to enjoy but as a canvas for their designs. This mindset led them to build their own office in Miami from scratch, which they describe as a “living catalog” of their work. The office showcases Yodezeen’s unique style, utilizing all-natural materials and acting as a showroom for the studio’s own designer furniture. This intentional design allows Yodezeen to welcome guests who are seeking exclusive, bespoke solutions for their dream spaces.
One such space in Miami is Demilune, a custom apartment in the Ritz Carlton Residences in Sunny Isles Beach. The owner envisioned a one-of-a-kind apartment in a classic contemporary style, and Yodezeen achieved this through the use of natural wood and stone, a muted palette with bright accents, and custom-made furniture and art.
Another of the jewels of Yodezeen’s U.S. portfolio is the custom two-story home in the style of a “modern barnhouse” for real estate broker Oren Alexander and his family in Aspen Colorado. This stunning residence embraces a barn house style, offering a simplistic, spacious and refreshing atmosphere.
The design thoughtfully caters to the needs of the family, with six basement children’s rooms replicating a cozy summer camp setting. The ground floor features a fully functional kitchen, a welcoming living room, and a dining area with a striking custom wooden table that comfortably sits twelve. What truly distinguishes the home are the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain scenery which greets visitors via panoramic windows integrated seamlessly into every angle of the first floor. The space also boasts two spacious master bedrooms, one adorned with a custom labradorite fireplace, and another showcasing a unique custom sofa recessed into a niche.
Oren Alexander shared that he decided to work with Yodezeen because they “know how to work with the surrounding area and make sure each element of the design looks like it belongs there.”
“It was important to create something that, while contemporary, would be a classic, and I think Yodezeen understood that assignment.” Said Alexander. “In terms of design and liveability, this is one of the best homes in the Aspen Area.”
This Colorado home is emblematic of the way the firm synthesizes global and local. Yodezeen’s close working collaboration with the home’s owner demonstrates how they have a strong presence and meticulous oversight over every step of their custom-made process. In the words of Sharf: “Yes, we are Ukrainian, and yes we work around the world, but we are also next door, we are by your side.”