Love by the Moon is a women’s fashion boutique designed by HE.D group in the centre of Kyiv, inside a building that once hosted two small grocery shops separated by walls and independent entrances. The project transforms a fragmented and identity-less space into a continuous, intimate and refined interior, enhancing high ceilings, large windows and the relationship with natural light.
A space open to natural light
What initially appeared to be a limitation soon became the main source of inspiration for the project. The large windows suggested the idea of a permeable space capable of establishing a dialogue with the exterior and inviting passers-by inside. Natural light therefore becomes a central component of the intervention, contributing to the creation of an ethereal and balanced atmosphere.
Cream-coloured walls wrap the interior in a soft and neutral continuity, while natural wood inserts define doors, boiserie and custom-made furniture. The contrast between light surfaces and warm wood grain establishes a carefully balanced relationship between lightness, solidity and comfort.
Natural materials and local craftsmanship
The interior develops as a balance between eclecticism and contemporary classicism. Warm wood tones introduce a sense of solidity without compromising the overall lightness of the composition. Wood elements run through the space, unifying furniture, architectural details and surfaces within a coherent spatial language.
Many pieces of furniture, finishes and even some lighting elements were produced by local craftsmen following the drawings developed by HE.D group. This collaboration between designers and artisans allowed a precise harmony of materials and tones, reinforcing the boutique’s identity and its strong artisanal dimension.
Light as a narrative element
Lighting is the most distinctive element of the intervention. It does not simply perform a functional role but becomes a narrative device capable of shaping spatial perception. Three large central chandeliers, inspired by the form of jellyfish, attract attention from the street and introduce a subtle sense of movement inside the boutique.
Accent lighting is carefully distributed to create soft contrasts and highlight the material quality of the surfaces. Sales areas and more intimate zones maintain a continuous luminous rhythm that guides visitors through the space without abrupt transitions.
Fitting rooms and domestic atmosphere
Special attention was devoted to the fitting rooms, conceived as intimate and welcoming environments. Far from being simple service spaces, they are designed as small private rooms where warm tones, soft surfaces and carefully oriented mirrors create harmonious perspectives.
The project also emphasises the tactile and sensory dimension of the interior. Natural fabrics, light linen curtains, carpets and soft flooring contribute to an enveloping atmosphere, while some hand-painted materials introduce a sense of uniqueness. A delicate fabric divider separates the retail area from the operational space.
Vintage furniture and carefully selected objects complete the setting and add character and authenticity. A chair near the window, a table lamp and small decorative tea sets create an elegant and intimate interior where shopping becomes a calm and contemplative experience.
Credits
Location: Kyiv, Ukraine
Design: HE.D group
Design Team: Daria Loban, Yevhenii Hluhovskyi, Yuliia Savytska, Anastasiia Korniichuk
Photo credit: Yevhenii Avramenko