"IKEA is everywhere, but there are very few individual spaces"

Contents:

• About the atmosphere
• About the team
• About things and style

Vologda has excellent potential to become an attractive tourist destination. New projects are being implemented in the lace capital of the Russian North, opening up unique opportunities to explore the city. One such project is VologDom, developed by the married couple Dmitry and Anastasia Belyaev. This project allows tourists to take a fresh look at Vologda's cultural heritage and architectural features, offering interesting excursions and events.

VologDom offers apartments in various areas of the city, harmoniously combining the convenience of city life with the charm of the Vologda village. Each apartment is decorated with restored antiques and unique carved wooden toys, hand-crafted by master craftsman Dmitry as part of the Wooden Artefact project. We strive to create an atmosphere of comfort and beauty, highlighting the region's cultural heritage. Choose VologDom for a comfortable stay in Vologda, where every interior element tells its own story.

The first VologDom space opened in 2020 and is located in an apartment in a modern building overlooking one of Vologda's oldest churches. At the end of 2023, a second space opened, occupying half of the second floor of a Stalin-era building in the city center. Dmitry and Anastasia plan to launch a third VologDom space in 2024.

We discussed with the owners of VologDom how to create a rustic atmosphere in a city home. It is important to use decorative and design elements that evoke nature and traditional rustic style. These accents will help bring warmth and comfort to an urban interior, and will also allow you to feel a connection with nature, even in a big city.

About the Atmosphere

When searching for a style for the guest apartments, we focused on modern interior design trends, as well as comfort and functionality. The main focus was on creating a cozy atmosphere that will make guests feel at home. We explored various styles, from minimalism to Scandinavian, and selected elements that harmoniously combine with each other. An important aspect was the use of neutral color palettes, comfortable furniture, and decorative elements that add personality. We also took into account the needs of guests, ensuring the availability of all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. Thus, a stylish and practical interior was created that will attract attention and make guests' stay pleasant.

Anastasia: Inspiration came from Dima's work and his Wooden Artefact project. This became the starting point for immersing ourselves in northern aesthetics. We visited Karelia and Lake Onega, carefully studying the local natural and cultural features. Then the house itself became a source of ideas, suggesting how to implement our vision.

In our first project, we created an atmosphere using the light that filtered through the windows and the dome. We decided to tie the interior into the church architecture by framing one of the windows with an antique window frame, allowing us to "take the church into the frame." The textured walls of the apartment, reminiscent of the white stone walls of a temple, help to preserve and reflect light, creating a unique atmosphere in the space.

For the curtains, translucent light linen was chosen, which creates a feeling Lightness and comfort. When choosing the furniture, we strove to achieve a harmonious blend of modern and antique pieces, including items passed down to us from our grandparents. We also opted for high-quality bedding, because after long walks, you want to immerse yourself in a comfortable cloud that envelops and relaxes.

The color scheme in our two apartments was determined by antique rustic panels, which are elements of kitchen cabinets or lintels. We carefully selected these unique details from antique dealers, paying attention to quality and preservation, as they are rare. Each panel gives the interior a special charm and atmosphere, reflecting our love of history and tradition.

The dance of the interior is accented by the delicate and muted shades of rare panels, such as blue, burgundy, and orange. It is important that the carpets, bedding, and decorative pillows harmonize with these colors, creating a unified and stylish space. The right choice of textiles and colors can transform the atmosphere of a room and make it more cozy and attractive.

Houses are decorated with carved wooden figurines, such as horses, birds, dolls and dishes. These unique pieces represent the Wooden Artefact collection, bringing warmth and comfort to any interior. Each figurine is crafted with meticulous attention to detail and showcases the mastery of the artisans. Wooden Artefact products will be a wonderful addition to your home, adding personality and aesthetic appeal.

Dmitry creates anthropomorphic and zoomorphic wooden figures, primarily inspired by northern themes. His works reflect imagery typical of the Vologda and Arkhangelsk regions, as well as elements found in Aleutian bone objects. These figures draw inspiration from ethnographic and archaeological finds collected from museums and private collections, as well as from old books, giving them uniqueness and depth.

I create alternative forms less frequently. For example, a sheep, which some perceive as a bull. This doesn't bother me, because I like it when there is an element of ambiguity in forms.

I like the combination of vintage materials with modern approaches. We have an old house in the countryside that's gradually falling into disrepair, and I continue to use the boards from there. I started by making steps and a stove ledge, and then moved on to the floorboards—they're massive, thick, and have a history all their own. I use these boards regularly, trying to preserve any paint chips, holes, and metal elements like nails and rings driven into the wood. Although working with such material requires more effort, and the tools quickly lose their sharpness, the end result is always satisfying.

VologDom is a space that feels like home, a personal and cozy place. Isn't it apprehensive to let strangers into such an intimate setting?

Anastasia: In the four years that our spaces have been open, we've rarely encountered the need for repairs or additional cleaning. Our unique atmosphere attracts people who value and care for what's truly important.

Dmitry: Breakages, scratches, and damage are ubiquitous. In some cases, they can give things a special charisma and uniqueness. Such defects often tell their own story, emphasizing the character of the objects.

About the team

Your story about how the city, wood, and a sense of home are intertwined is a deep and multi-layered narrative. The city symbolizes dynamism and movement, its streets are full of life and diversity. Wood, in turn, represents stability and nature, a reminder of roots and a connection to the earth. A sense of home is what binds these elements together. It arises from memories associated with specific places and an emotional attachment to them. In your story, it's important to highlight how the city shapes your perception of home, and how the tree becomes a symbol of comfort and security, filling your life with harmony and tranquility.

Dmitry: I was born in Vologda, where I learned carpentry and wood carving. This process has always been of interest to me. However, there was a time when I put my tools aside and began traveling a lot with my wife. During our travels, we encountered many similar items. For example, in Argentina, you could find a magnet identical to one sold in Alaska, differing only in the inscriptions. At the same time, there were practically no things that reflected the uniqueness of the local culture and truly conveyed the atmosphere of the region.

Anastasia: When choosing places to stay, we always prefer to rent housing from local residents. This allows for a deeper immersion into the region's atmosphere and a better understanding of the local way of life. While IKEA is present in every corner of the world, unique and authentic places remain few and far between. That's why we decided to create VologDom, a project that offers unique accommodation options that reflect local culture and traditions.

VologDom and Wooden Artefact: Art or Business?

Comparing VologDom and Wooden Artefact raises an interesting question about the basis of their activities. On the one hand, both companies are creative projects that create unique products using traditional techniques. On the other hand, their work also has a commercial component aimed at satisfying market needs.

VologDom produces wooden products that are distinguished by high quality and original design. Each product is the result of meticulous craftsmanship, which gives it artistic value. However, to successfully operate in the market, a company must consider commercial aspects such as pricing, marketing, and consumer demand.

Wooden Artefact, in turn, also focuses on creating unique wooden objects, but emphasizes eco-friendliness and sustainability. This attracts the attention of buyers who appreciate not only beauty but also the philosophy behind the product. In this context, art and business intertwine, creating a harmonious combination.

Thus, VologDom and Wooden Artefact are examples of how art can coexist with business. Both brands demonstrate that unique products created with soul and attention to detail can be successful in the market, while ensuring high quality and customer satisfaction.

Dmitry: It's primarily the idea and the mood. I don't view my activity as a business for profit, but commercial aspects shouldn't be ignored. I'm proud to call myself a craftsman, and if someone considers me an artist, that's nice too.

Anastasia: I used to consider myself a marketer Dima, but I recently completed my studies at the International School of Design and now work professionally as an interior designer. This allows me to express my creative side. I'm also responsible for hospitality, maintaining contact with guests, and promptly resolving any issues that arise. My goal is to create a comfortable atmosphere and provide a high level of service.

About things and style

There are many items in VologDom, but some of them have special meaning. These can include unique pieces by local artisans that reflect the region's culture and traditions. Also important are classic-style pieces, which add coziness and charm to any room. Equally important are modern accessories that blend harmoniously with the interior and highlight the individuality of each space. Choosing items at VologDom is an opportunity to create a unique atmosphere in your home.

Anastasia: We periodically visit local antique shops in search of vintage items and always find real treasures. One such find was a large panel that now adorns our second space. Its original purpose remains a mystery; perhaps it was an old washboard.

Under the panel is a chest purchased on Avito. It is decorated with ancient inscriptions and naive painting depicting red flowers with green leaves. This impressively sized chest is perfect for play: even two children can hide inside it. I hope they use it for its intended purpose when they are with us.

Dmitry realizes that many tasks can be completed more economically and simply. However, the real result is important to him. For example, he planed and waxed the floor himself, without resorting to outside help. It took a lot of time and effort, but in the end, he achieved exactly the effect he wanted. Despite the fact that the apartment is located in a Stalin-era building, the floor in it looks like in a northern village house.

The minimalist style remains popular due to its simplicity and elegance. To maintain a minimalist aesthetic and avoid slipping into kitsch or ostentatiousness, it's important to adhere to several principles. First, select only the necessary elements, avoiding excessive embellishments. Second, pay attention to the color palette—a limited palette creates harmony and fosters a calm atmosphere. Third, use quality materials and textures that add depth and interest without overcrowding. A well-designed space and proper organization also play a key role in maintaining a minimalist style. These principles will help create a stylish and functional space where every element has its place.

Anastasia on an inner sense of proportion. I am a minimalist and am wary of adding excess to my life.

Dmitry: I purposefully sought out anti-references to identify inconsistencies in details that create excessive clutter. In fact, our design is not at all complicated — it fully reflects the spirit of our city and the characteristics of the Russian North.

Learn more about design by subscribing to our Telegram channel. We share the latest news, helpful tips, and inspiring design ideas. Stay on top of the latest trends and improve your skills with us.

Reading is an important part of our lives, helping us develop our thinking and broaden our horizons. It helps us gain new knowledge and immerse ourselves in a world of imagination and ideas. Reading books, articles, and other materials enriches our vocabulary and improves our writing skills. Regular reading improves concentration and memory and helps reduce stress. It's important to choose a variety of genres and topics to find something new and interesting every time. Reading not only entertains but also develops critical thinking, which is especially important in today's world. Maintain your reading habit and discover new horizons of knowledge and emotions.

• One Hundred Years of Wooden Toy Design: From the Golden Age to Decline and Revival
• "A designer's profession is only 10% creative"
• "My mission is to make adaptive clothing production a business"
• Margarita Smagina on working with film photography, creating the zine "Layers" and her fashionable clothing collection for Befree