B: What is the inspiration behind LAVKA? How and when did you decide to open your store?

L: Our decision to create a physical store was deliberate. With our own ceramics studio and a deep-rooted knowledge of production and craftsmanship, we envisioned bringing together more makers and their products under one roof. This led to the idea of opening a store. We wanted our customers to explore and acquire a curated selection of products, confident that each item would not only endure but also support local designers and artisans.

B: What does LAVKA mean?

L: The name "Lavka" is rooted in old Russian, carrying a dual meaning. It refers to both a shop where everything is available—much like the concept stores we admire—and a bench, as goods were once displayed and sold from a simple bench. This word resonates with me personally, as it reflects my heritage and origins in Moscow, Russia.

B: What is the feeling you would like for your customers to have when they enter your store?

L: We believe that the architecture of our space, combined with our curated collections and individual service, offers an experience akin to visiting a museum—where one encounters extraordinary objects—yet feels as comfortable and inviting as being at home. Our aim is to surprise and inspire our visitors with a unique blend of colors, shapes, long-forgotten traditions, and contemporary innovations. Every choice in our store represents a commitment to quality and comes with personalized guidance from our knowledgeable staff.

B: What kinds of labels do you carry in LAVKA?

L: Our collection features numerous small Swiss and European labels with a focus on handmade craftsmanship. For us, the significance of a product extends beyond its design and aesthetics. We place great importance on where and how each item is made. Our aesthetic philosophy transcends the visual and embraces a spectrum of considerations that increasingly shape our selection. We are driven by a passion for exploring materials and traditional techniques, understanding the history behind objects, and studying design influences.

B: What do you enjoy most about having your concept store? What motivates you and your team the most?

L: We feel eager to share the stories about our products with our customers. Captivating and surprising them along the way is an experience we encounter every day, and it makes what we do very worthwhile.