It is hard to imagine the modern world without thoughtful design and architecture. They shape the spaces in which we live and work, blending aesthetics with functionality. High-quality interior design not only enhances buildings but also improves everyday comfort and usability. From urban planning to creating a cozy apartment, architecture and design directly influence our mood, productivity, and overall well-being.
In this article, we explore how great design comes to life — from the first concept to its realization in real projects. Guiding us through this process is Ihor Martin, founder and chief architect of the Martins studio, who shares his experience and vision of the role of design in contemporary life.
Ihor Martin is a Ukrainian architect and designer who, together with his colleague Olha Novikova, founded their own studio in Kyiv in 2008. The idea of establishing an architectural bureau came in response to clients’ growing demand for a personalized and high-quality approach to design. This led to the creation of Martin Architects, which later evolved into the succinct brand name Martins. What has remained unchanged is the team’s core principle: to work with quality, responsibility, and respect for every space.
The beginning wasn’t easy — the young studio had to build a team while simultaneously earning a reputation in the market. Ihor Martin recalls that in the early days, the greatest support came from satisfied clients who recommended the studio to their friends.
“Our greatest achievement isn’t awards — it’s happy clients,” Ihor admits.
Within just a few years, Martins Studio began receiving its first professional accolades. The team gradually brought together highly skilled architects, interior designers, and engineers capable of bringing the boldest client ideas to life. Rapid growth enabled the studio to take on projects of various scales — from cozy apartments to the development of public spaces.
Over more than fifteen years of operation, Martins Studio has developed its own design philosophy, rooted in the harmonious balance between aesthetics and practicality. Every interior and building must not only be visually appealing but also comfortable to live in and functional in everyday use.
Ihor Martin emphasizes that honesty and quality are the studio’s core values. Martins Studio deliberately limits the number of projects it undertakes to ensure each one receives maximum attention and care.
Another hallmark of Martins is its comprehensive project support — from initial sketches to final commissioning. The team provides a full range of services: concept development, 3D visualization, architectural and interior design, and author supervision during construction.
This approach ensures that every project is implemented exactly as envisioned, with no loss of the original idea along the way. The studio embraces cutting-edge technologies, keeps up with global trends, and offers clients innovative solutions.
Importantly, Martins also actively engages in social initiatives. Alongside commercial projects, the team creates comfortable environments for schools and kindergartens and participates in charitable construction programs. These principles have helped the studio earn the trust of clients and the respect of the professional community.
Project: Loft is Loft
Over the years, the Martins Studio portfolio has grown to include numerous projects recognized both in Ukraine and internationally. One of the studio’s early notable successes was Loft is Loft — a duplex loft in Kyiv, completed in 2015. This stylish, youth-oriented apartment in a newly built residential complex was designed as a single open space with a double-height living room. The designers boldly combined the authentic texture of exposed brickwork with modern accents — a metal spiral staircase, glass columns, and vibrant stained glass elements.
The highlight of the interior is the custom-designed furniture: this project marked the debut of pieces created by Ihor Martyn for the Ukrainian brand HIS (Home Ideas Supply). The apartment is also equipped with a smart home system that allows the owner to control lighting and appliances via smartphone. This project showcases how an ultra-modern space can be created while preserving the authenticity of materials and maintaining a maximally open layout.
Air Village Project
Another landmark project by the studio is Air Village, located in the suburbs of Kyiv. This unique residential complex is inspired by freedom, open space, and nature — designed for those who value peace, natural light, and unobstructed horizons.
The project envisions contemporary private homes featuring expansive panoramic glazing that blurs the boundaries between interior spaces and the surrounding landscape. The interiors are filled with natural light, while open-plan layouts create a sense of spaciousness, lightness, and harmony with the environment.
The design is rooted in the idea of integrating architecture into everyday life — minimalist forms, transparency, natural textures, and well-balanced accents contribute to an atmosphere of tranquility and comfort. It is a prime example of how modern housing can be functional, aesthetically pleasing, and emotionally resonant at the same time.
Developed by our team of architects and interior designers at Martins Studio, the Air Village project brings to life a bold concept — the symbiosis of home and hobby — demonstrating how architecture can reflect even the most unique passions of its future residents. Completed in 2022, this project has become a source of pride for Martins Studio and has garnered attention from leading industry publications.
Bali Virgin Beach Project
Another exciting challenge for Ihor Martin was stepping onto the international stage. Recently, Martins Studio joined the development of the Virgin Beach Hotel resort on the island of Bali, Indonesia. Working on this exotic project required taking several key factors into account. First and foremost was the limited size of the coastal plot — it was essential to compactly integrate all functions while ensuring that every room offered a panoramic view of the ocean, explains the studio’s founder.
«Our main goal is to create a dream hotel on a small coastal plot, ensuring that most rooms offer an ocean view.»
Secondly, the local context: the region where the complex is being built is very conservative, so it was essential to integrate contemporary architecture delicately into the traditional Balinese environment. The team found a solution by combining materials and forms typical of Bali—such as wave-shaped roofs and natural wood finishes—with a modern minimalist style.
Finally, the Martins Studio project Bali Virgin Beach has acquired a truly unique feature that captivates guests from the very first glance: a real waterfall has been integrated inside the hotel building. This central water installation has become a symbol of harmony between architecture and nature—visitors, upon crossing the threshold, are immediately immersed in the atmosphere of a tropical oasis.
The Virgin Beach Hotel is still under development, yet it has already received positive feedback as an example of an innovative approach to resort architecture.
The project was officially presented on March 6, 2025, at an investment forum in Kyiv, which brought together leading representatives of the development, architecture, and investment sectors from various countries. The event served as a platform for discussing new directions in tourism real estate, international partnerships, and attracting investments in projects with high architectural and social potential.
It was at this forum that the Bali Virgin Beach project was showcased as a successful synergy between the Ukrainian school of architecture and international developers. The project was highly praised for its conceptual depth, sensitivity to local context, and contemporary design solutions. The presentation became one of the forum’s highlights, showcasing the ability of Ukrainian studios to implement world-class large-scale projects.
In recent years, Martins Studio has confidently entered the international stage.
“We are growing not only in Ukraine but across the globe,” says Ihor Martin.
Today, the team is working on projects in the Middle East and Asia — including Dubai, Qatar, and Bali. Each new project is not just a challenge but a significant step in professional development.
Working abroad requires careful consideration of numerous factors: building regulations, climate, cultural context, and logistics. The experience gained in Ukraine has become a solid foundation for new international ventures.
The first collaborations with foreign partners helped the team better understand local specifics and avoid common pitfalls. For instance, in Bali, the team worked with local artisans, studied the nuances of the tropical climate, selected sustainable materials, and adapted the design to reflect the national aesthetic.
This exchange of experience enriches the studio. The knowledge and practices acquired abroad are already influencing projects in Ukraine.
Today, Martins Studio offers contemporary, bold solutions while preserving a uniquely Ukrainian warmth and attention to detail. The studio’s geography continues to expand, but its core principle remains unchanged: design should serve people — it must be simple, functional, and unique.
The journey taken by Ihor Martin and his team is a powerful example of how dreams and dedication can be transformed into spaces that change people’s lives. From student sketches to international projects, Martins Studio has grown steadily, staying true to its core values.
Today, Ihor not only leads the studio but also shares his experience with others. He serves as a mentor for the charitable project Hutir — a healing center for veterans — and actively supports housing reconstruction initiatives.
This broad perspective is no coincidence. The founder of Martins deeply believes in the power of design.
“We believe that every space should enhance life and be as unique as the person living in it,” says Ihor Martin.
Looking ahead, the studio aims to explore new forms and materials, pushing both creative and geographical boundaries. Yet the core mission remains unchanged: to create spaces where people feel comfortable and at ease.
Because true design is more than just aesthetics — it is a way to make life practical, meaningful, and harmonious.
If you’re looking for a team that knows how to turn ideas into stylish and functional spaces, reach out to Martins Studio. We create design with soul, precision, and meticulous attention to every detail.
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