Here, we ask designers to take a selfie and give us an inside look at their life.
Age: 34
Occupation: Creative director and co-founder of YoDezeen.
Instagram: @artur_sharf and @yodezeen_architects
Hometown: Kyiv, Ukraine.
Studio location: Miami, Los Angeles, Dubai, Warsaw, Kyiv, Milan, and London.
Describe what you make: My work ranges from private villas and high-end restaurants to exclusive resorts and sophisticated yachts. With nearly 1,000 projects delivered in 29 countries, YoDezeen specializes in tailored solutions that blend innovation with cultural sensitivity. We are dedicated to setting trends in the world of architecture and design, and creating original, functional, and sustainable spaces. My team and I focus on projects in the U.S. and are currently expanding into new markets such as Mexico and Puerto Rico.
The most important thing you’ve designed to date: A resort spanning three islands in the Maldives. At this resort, we’re responsible for the interiors of all zones and the architecture of one of the islands, creating a seamless blend of natural beauty and sophisticated design.
In the U.S., a standout project is the soon-to-open Harbor Club in Miami Beach. This restaurant features three distinct zones, where we delivered both the facade and interior design, combining contemporary art with a vibrant coastal atmosphere. Another significant project is our venture into Puerto Rico, which marks a new and exciting market for us. Located in a prime area with a stunning ocean view, this project is a testament to our ability to innovate in diverse environments. We’re designing a condo with two apartments per floor, a penthouse, and parking facilities. We’re also developing exceptional amenities, including a pool area, and constructing a villa that’s seamlessly integrated into the landscape at the end of the site. It’s thrilling to bring our expertise to this remarkable locale.
Describe the problem your work solves: Crafting spaces that aren’t only visually striking but also deeply personal and functional. We guide projects from inception to completion, ensuring they become environments where every detail reflects our clients’ unique personalities and practical needs. Whether it’s a residential project or a commercial venture, our goal is to create spaces that are both aesthetically stunning and purposeful, enriching lives and exceeding expectations with every project we undertake.
Describe the project you are working on now: In Mumbai, we’re designing the amenities for a skyscraper along with a show flat that epitomizes modern urban living. In New York, we’re working on a private apartment with stunning Central Park views. We’re also designing a house in Tel Aviv and a chalet in Aspen, each reflecting the unique cultural and environmental context of their locations. Our ongoing projects also include several apartments in Miami and Nice, where we continue to bring our signature blend of innovation and style to life.
A new or forthcoming project we should know about: We’re completing a significant residence named Seabird that launches in September. This home features 2,799 square feet of interior space and an expansive 4,198-square-foot terrace, offering an exceptional outdoor environment. The interior reflects a subtle and understated elegance, true to YoDezeen’s style, incorporating materials such as travertine, gray marble, and wood paneling to add natural warmth. Daily, I’m fueled by the vision of Seabird becoming a benchmark of Miami design-forward residences, and the most emotional moments are witnessing dreams materialize into tangible beauty, a daily reminder of the exclusive space we’re creating.
What you absolutely must have in your studio: In our studio, music and art are essential. We fill our space with various forms of art, collaborating with both Ukrainian and international artists. Our Kyiv office showcases pieces by the internationally acclaimed KAWS and paintings by the talented Andriy Voznytsky. We also have a deep appreciation for contemporary Ukrainian artists such as Nazar Bilyk, Yehor Zigura, Lina Condes, Anatoly Kryvolap, and Victor Sydorenko, whose works we love and incorporate into our projects. This blend of diverse artistic influences creates uniquely inspiring environments.
What you do when you’re not working: I enjoy running, cycling, and wakesurfing. These activities help me stay active and balanced.
Sources of creative envy: I find immense inspiration in architects like Patricia Urquiola, Norman Foster, and Piero Lissoni, not only in their work but also in their personalities. I’m also deeply inspired by individuals who have managed to find a balance between their professional and personal lives.
The distraction you want to eliminate: There are no distractions when working on your life’s passion with a top-tier team and clear goals to strive toward.
Concrete or marble? Marble.
High-rise or townhouse? High-rise.
Remember or forget? Remember.
Aliens or ghosts? Ghosts.
Dark or light? Dark.
