At Maison et Objet 2025, Ukraine's furniture and design industry demonstrated its resilience, innovation, and global influence in modern interiors. The event, held from January 16 to 20 in Paris, showcased the ingenuity of Ukrainian designers amid challenges posed by geopolitical instability and war. Spearheaded by the Ukrainian Export Alliance (UEA), the exhibition was more than a display of craftsmanship; it was a declaration of cultural resilience and creative excellence.
Ukrainian designers have redefined their craft during trying times, transforming adversity into opportunities. Their participation at this prestigious trade fair highlighted their ability to merge cultural heritage with modern innovation. Julia Lisovska, Commercial Director of Tivoli, emphasised that their showcase symbolised the resilience of Ukrainian culture and a vision for the future.
The exhibits reflected a fusion of tradition and contemporary design. Tivoli's Strikha Set, featuring minimalist wooden chairs and a sculpted dining table, exemplified warmth and sophistication with a focus on ergonomic comfort. TAHHO Artwall's "Fruit Garden Gold" offered intricate hand-painted murals that combined luxury with storytelling, while the Wowin Sofa embodied Scandinavian simplicity and comfort. Edison Factory's lighting installations and Mebus's eco-conscious Miami Chair highlighted the balance of functionality and aesthetic appeal. Pikart's lighting fixtures added character to interiors with delicate brass and glass elements, showcasing the breadth of Ukrainian creativity.
Several notable brands represented Ukraine at the event, including Tivoli, Mebus, DUB, SKLO, and WOWIN. Tivoli, a family-owned brand from Stryi, is renowned for blending traditional woodworking with modern design, earning accolades such as the DNA Paris Design Award in 2023. Mebus focused on sustainable cabinet furniture, kitchens, and wooden furnishings that catered to global environmental trends. DUB specialised in collapsible furniture crafted from Ukrainian oak, offering minimalist designs with bespoke customisation. SKLO transformed glass and metal into artistic statements, with half of the proceeds from its MY.LOVA.NOVA collection supporting the Ukrainian Armed Forces. WOWIN drew inspiration from Scandinavian aesthetics, creating timeless furniture that resonated emotionally and functionally.
The Ukrainian furniture sector, valued at $1 billion annually, has grown into a global export leader, supplying 119 countries. Europe remains its primary market, receiving 96% of exports, with Poland, Germany, and Denmark as key destinations. Despite the ongoing conflict, the industry has maintained adaptability, prioritising affordability, quality, and sustainability. Manufacturers emphasised eco-friendly practices, using FSC-certified wood, energy-efficient production methods, and sustainable materials, earning international recognition through awards like the Red Dot Design Awards and the European Design Award.
Looking ahead, the Ukrainian industry is expanding into the Middle East and Southeast Asia, markets that value high-quality, sustainable, and customisable furniture. With zero import duties for Ukrainian goods and a "Made in Europe" certification, the sector has a competitive edge. The UEA plans to boost exports by 30% in 2025, leveraging advanced technologies like AI-driven production and sustainable sourcing.
Ukrainian furniture design at Maison et Objet 2025 exemplified resilience, creativity, and a commitment to shaping global design trends, proving that even in adversity, excellence endures.
More information:
Ukrainian Export Alliance (UEA)
www.instagram.com/ukrainian_export_alliance