By: Svetlana Khachiyan
Interviewer: Yury, Alina, Ya Phygital Fabrica has truly redefined furniture design by merging art, design, and technology. What inspired you to take this innovative approach?
Yury Goncharov: We were driven by the desire to create furniture that goes beyond traditional boundaries. Combining my background in sculpture and engineering with Alina’s insights into art and psychology allows us to craft pieces that are not only functional but also deeply emotive. We wanted to merge physical craftsmanship with digital technology to produce designs that evoke personal connections.
Alina Tacmelova: For me, the inspiration comes from the belief that furniture can be more than just a functional object—it can be a reflection of one’s identity and emotional experiences. By integrating philosophical and psychological perspectives into our designs, we aim to create pieces that resonate on a deeper level, making them meaningful companions in people’s lives.
Interviewer: Yury, your designs are influenced by iconic designers like Alessandro Mendini and Philippe Starck. How do their styles impact your work?
Yury Goncharov: The influence of designers like Mendini and Starck inspires me to explore new forms and ideas. Their bold approaches and willingness to push design boundaries encourage me to experiment with both aesthetics and functionality. I strive to blend their visionary concepts with my technical skills to create pieces that are both innovative and practical.
Interviewer: How does your dual background in sculpture and engineering shape your design philosophy?
Yury Goncharov: My background allows me to approach design from both artistic and technical perspectives. Sculpture provides an understanding of form and expression, while engineering ensures the practicality and durability of the designs. This combination helps me create furniture that is visually compelling and functionally sound, merging artistry with precision.
Interviewer: Alina, how does sustainability influence your design choices at Ya Phygital Fabrica?
Alina Tacmelova: Sustainability is central to our approach. We focus on creating pieces that are durable and emotionally resonant, ensuring they are cherished and passed down through generations. By using eco-friendly materials and designing with longevity in mind, we aim to create furniture that has a lasting impact, both physically and emotionally.
Interviewer: Yury, can you tell us about the “Ex-Periment Collection” and what inspired this series?
Yury Goncharov: The “Ex-Periment Collection” draws from the vibrant and experimental spirit of the 1960s. Inspired by the Memphis Group, the collection features bold colors and dynamic forms that challenge conventional design norms. We wanted to create pieces that invite users to engage in a playful and interactive way, reflecting the playful nature of that era.
Interviewer: What is the significance of the “Alta Purpura Mota” armchair in your collection?
Yury Goncharov: The “Alta Purpura Mota” armchair represents movement and transformation. Inspired by Isaac Newton’s theories on energy, the chair changes color with the time of day, symbolizing the Earth’s rotation. It embodies our belief in design as a dynamic, evolving art form that reflects both the passage of time and the surrounding energy.
Interviewer: How did showcasing your work at Milan Design Week impact your creative process?
Yury Goncharov: Milan Design Week was a pivotal experience for us. It allowed us to present our work on a global stage and receive valuable feedback. The vibrant cultural atmosphere of Milan further enriched our creative process, inspiring us to push the boundaries of our designs and explore new possibilities.
Interviewer: Alina, what future projects or design fairs are yo excited about?
Alina Tacmelova: We are looking forward to participating in prestigious design fairs such as Design Miami/Art Basel and the Collectible Furniture fair. These events will give us the opportunity to share our vision with an even broader audience and continue our journey of exploration and innovation in design.
Interviewer: Yury, what new materials or techniques are you excited to explore in your future designs?
Yury Goncharov: I’m excited about experimenting with advanced digital fabrication techniques and sustainable materials. We are exploring innovative ways to combine traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to create pieces that are both environmentally friendly and cutting-edge.
Interviewer: Alina, what message do you hope your designs convey to those who experience them?
Alina Tacmelova: I hope our designs convey a sense of emotional depth and personal connection. We want each piece to be more than just furniture; it should be a meaningful companion that resonates with the owner’s life story and evolves with them over time.
Interviewer: Yury, how do you envision the future of furniture design evolving, and what role do you see for Ya Phygital Fabrica?
Yury Goncharov: The future of furniture design will likely continue to integrate functionality with emotional and aesthetic considerations. At Ya Phygital Fabrica, we aim to be at the forefront of this evolution by blending traditional craftsmanship with digital innovation. Our goal is to shape the future of design through creativity and cutting-edge technology.
Published by: Khy Talara
