Daria Maksimova on the Art of Crafting a Scandinavian-Inspired Apartment

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Daria Maksimova

Daria Maksimova is an environmental designer with over a decade of experience specializing in immersive spaces. She embraces diverse design approaches, avoiding rigid styles and instead prioritizing harmony and visual comfort in her work.

1Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.
I am an environmental designer with over a decade of experience specializing in immersive spaces.
2What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?
My artistic journey began in childhood art schools, making design university a natural next step.
3Tell us more about your business/company, job profile, and what you do.
I design experiential spaces that people can explore—my work on the World of Barbie immersive experience, where I designed a modern Barbie Dreamhouse, perfectly illustrates how I blend inspirational interior design with immersive exhibitions.
4What does “design” mean to you?
Design is present in everything human-made—it surrounds us constantly, even when we don't consciously notice it.
5What’s your favorite kind of design and why?
I embrace diverse design approaches rather than limiting myself to one style, focusing on creating harmony and visual comfort.
6To you, what makes a “good” design?
A good design is like a good movie, you can watch it again and again!
7Describe your design style and its main characteristics.
My approach to style is fluid, like painting; it's about finding the perfect balance of elements for each unique project.
8Tell us about your design process.
My design process adapts to each project but typically involves research, initial sketches, and multiple iterations until the perfect solution emerges.
9Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?
I draw inspiration from various cultural heritages and countries.
10Congratulations! As the winner of the 2024 MUSE Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
Receiving this award is very meaningful, considering the remarkable talent of past recipients.
11Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2024 MUSE Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
This project successfully merges renovation, artistry, and functionality! Every visual element serves a purpose in the space, and this award provides valuable exposure for such work.
12What was the biggest challenge with this project?
The key challenge was creating an open, airy atmosphere within a relatively compact space.
13How has winning an Award developed your practice/career?
The award has brought positive recognition to my design practice.
14What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?

1. Creative freedom.

2. Bringing concepts to life.

3. Possibilities.

15What makes your country specifically, unique in the design industry?
Our country hosts some of the world's finest designers, both native and transplanted.
16Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?
The technical and digital aspects of design will continue to evolve significantly.
17If you were a student entering this industry or an aspiring MUSE Design Awards submitter, what advice would you give them?
Start entering competitions before graduation!
18What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?
I would recommend using digital resources but not forgetting to see inspirational places with your own eyes.
19Tell us something you have never told anyone else.
I'm currently developing an exciting new project that I plan to submit very soon!
20Who has inspired you in your life and why?
Artists from the Impressionist era really inspire me—their work transcends time, continuing to captivate and resonate with audiences across decades.
21What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
Finishing a project despite all obstacles!
Scandinavian-Inspired Arty Apartment | 2024

Daria Maksimova

Daria Maksimova is an environmental designer with over a decade of experience specializing in immersive spaces. She embraces diverse design approaches, avoiding rigid styles and instead prioritizing harmony and visual comfort in her work.


Explore the journey of Ibrahim Mohamad, the Platinum Winner of the 2024 MUSE Design Awards. His work at LUXURIOUS INTERIOR DESIGN merges cultural, environmental, and societal influences, crafting spaces that exude luxury and precision. Through collaboration, he transforms ideas into stunning realities.

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