Ukraine House in Denmark presents “Material Resistance: Ukrainian Design in Action” Exhibition for 3daysofdesign in Copenhagen

Curated by design historian Larysa Tsybina and architect Anait Danielyan, the exhibition explores how Ukrainian designers respond creatively and resourcefully to the limitations imposed by war. Their practices embody the very theme of this year’s 3daysofdesign—KEEP IT REAL—which celebrates authenticity, integrity, and purpose in design.

The realities of limited access to resources shape Ukrainian design today. In a time of upheaval, designers and artisans work with what is available: natural resources, traditional crafts, and recycled materials. The exhibition explores how matter takes shape, transforming raw materials into contemporary design objects. “Much like matter resisting pressure and destruction,” say the curators Tsybina and Danielyan, “Ukrainian design today is shaped by resilience, and every material becomes much more than just a resource—it carries cultural identity and ability to withstand external forces.”

The Ukrainian Association of Furniture Manufacturers, a co-organizer of the exhibition, notes: “For the Association, supporting such initiatives is not only about export or international visibility. Each time Ukrainian brands take part in a global exhibition, they cross borders and tell the world: we exist, we create, we bring beauty, meaning, and resilience. By helping Ukrainian companies appear at international events, we are not just opening doors—we are building a space where they can be heard.”

In Copenhagen, the exhibition will be featured not only as part of the prestigious 3daysofdesign festival, but also in collaboration with the renowned London-based fair Material Matters, marking a new partnership for Ukraine House in Denmark this year.

Ukraine House curator Kateryna Stukalova adds: “At a time when Ukrainian design is courageously resisting Russia’s attempts to destroy its material and resource base, high-profile international platforms that amplify their voices are more important than ever. Material Matters, with its focus on the role of materials in contemporary design, offers a vital opportunity to showcase Ukrainian innovation, from sustainable materials to forward-thinking technologies. This visibility can lay the foundation for future, long-term partnerships that are both sustainable and mutually beneficial.”

Participating Ukrainian studios and brands include:
ALMA MRAMOR, YourFoRest, DUB™, Furn Object, FOST, YALANZHI OBJECTS, Buro150, RE:QUIET, Ryntovt Design, Maven Group, Cassone Workshop, AMAZE Objects, Guculiya, Clayp, Cegla Studios, DevoHome, and SVITANOK.

The exhibition spans a wide range of disciplines—from bio-composite lighting to heritage stone, from hand-crafted acoustic panels to hemp fur textiles—united by a commitment to sustainability, quality, and cultural authenticity.

Special thanks to Mlyn Design Hub, SIPPO in Ukraine, and the Ukrainian Office for Entrepreneurship and Export Development for their partnership and support.

As part of 3daysofdesign, on June 19, at 9:00, Ukraine House will host a breakfast with Ukrainian designers. Guests will have an opportunity to meet the creative minds behind our featured design projects while enjoying traditional Ukrainian breakfast snacks and coffee. We will be joined by the curators of this year's Ukrainian exhibition, Larysa Tsybina and Anait Danielyan, Andriy Blinovskyi (export promotion manager at SIPPO Ukraine), and designers Kseniya Ryntovt (Ryntovt Design), Oksana Devoe (DevoHome), Yuri Zhukov (Clayp), Stanislava Krugliakova (RE:QUIET), and Andriy Varenycia (DUB™ by Varenycia). There will also be a special guest, acclaimed designer Aleksej Iskos. Born in Kharkiv, Ukraine, and based in Copenhagen, he is known for his work with leading Danish brands like Muuto, Hay, Normann Copenhagen, etc.

The breakfast with designers will be opened by Nataliia Popovych, chairperson of Ukraine House in Denmark, and Andrii Yanevskyi, the Ambassador of Ukraine to Denmark.

Registration is free with limited seats: https://tr.ee/SsSByq

Visit the exhibition “Material Resistance: Ukrainian Design in Action” on June 18–20, 2025.

Address: Ukraine House in Denmark, Strandgade 27B, Design District Christianshavn, 1401, Copenhagen