ABOUT ME
HELLO, I’M MARIA KOVALKOVA
I’m a product designer interested in creating objects with distinctive character and thoughtful functionality.
I explore the relationship between form, materials and everyday experiences, turning unusual ideas into tangible objects.
MY APPROACH
I believe that everyday objects can be more than just functional.
I enjoy experimenting with shapes, exploring unexpected ideas and giving objects their own identity.
My approach combines:
PLAYFULNESS — creating objects with character.
EXPLORATION — searching for unexpected forms and ideas.
FUNCTIONALITY — making design meaningful in everyday life.
PROJECTS
1: koSHHHmariki
Task — Creating Not-So-Scary Monsters Create a collection of unusual monsters that reimagine the traditional image of creatures of the night. Instead of frightening beings, they become friendly companions from a sleepy kingdom, designed to guard people’s sleep and become part of their personal space.Approach — Building Character The development focused on expressive characters and their distinctive forms. I emphasised long, flexible limbs that can connect with one another, wrap around a person, hold their hand or interact with objects in the bedroom. This helped move beyond the idea of a traditional plush toy and introduced new ways of interacting with the objects.Outcome — A World of Sleep Guardians The result is a collection of character-based toys that can become both sleeping companions and part of the interior. Thanks to their flexible limbs, each monster can take on different positions, hug pillows, wrap around a headboard and create unique compositions within a space.
prototype development
2: Eyeglass stand — Monstrs
Task — Organizing Everyday Essentials Glasses are items that are constantly getting lost or easily damaged. I wanted to create an object that solves this everyday problem while simultaneously serving as a full-fledged interior decor piece. The goal was to bridge the gap between functionality and playful design, turning a simple holder into a character-based companion for your desk or bedside table.Approach — Designing Interaction The design centers on a secure and stable fit for any pair of glasses: the temples are held evenly and symmetrically, ensuring they never slip. The geometry of the stand allows the frames to rest securely behind the character’s head. A second essential element is the dedicated space for a cleaning cloth. Each stand features a designated area where the cloth can be folded, making it visually integrated into the character’s form while remaining easy to access.Outcome — Functional Character The result is a collection of ceramic monsters that serve as both reliable organizers and charming interior accents. By combining the silhouette of a friendly creature with the practical requirements of eyewear care, these stands keep glasses safe and accessible. To complete the experience, cleaning cloths can be sold as a set, ensuring that every monster is fully equipped to guard your accessories.prototype development
3: PyramidkA
Task — Rethinking the Table Lamp Create a bright and playful modular lamp that allows users to customise its appearance. The goal was to move beyond the traditional fixed form of a table lamp and give users the freedom to create their own lighting compositions.Approach — Exploring Modularity I developed a system of individual magnetic light modules that can be connected in different configurations. Each module can be attached from any side and automatically lights up when connected to the base or another module. This approach combines a flexible design with an intuitive and interactive user experience.Outcome — Light Without Limits The result is a modular lamp that can be rearranged into countless configurations. Its interchangeable elements turn lighting into a creative process, allowing users to change the shape and appearance of the lamp whenever they want.
prototype
4: Under the WingTask — Bringing Nature into Everyday Objects Develop a collection of homeware inspired by the agami, a long-legged waterbird and the symbol of AGAMI Ceramics. The goal was to translate the bird’s distinctive character into charming everyday objects that bring warmth and a sense of cosiness into the home. Approach — Exploring Forms & References I explored the visual characteristics of the bird and its natural environment, drawing inspiration from three key elements: the bird, the tree and the nest. Using a naive, primitive-inspired visual language, I translated these references into playful shapes and decorative objects, including an olive dish, a salt cellar and a small serving bowl.Outcome — A Collection with Character The result is a collection of decorative and functional homeware that combines natural references with a playful aesthetic. The objects reinterpret familiar household items through simple forms and expressive details, turning everyday rituals into something more personal and delightful.
My Creative Direction
Working on different projects has helped me understand what excites me most about product design: creating characters and bringing them into the world of objects.I love giving objects a personality — experimenting with shapes, proportions and details to create characters that feel unique and expressive.I’ve realised that these are the projects I approach with the greatest enthusiasm. They give me the freedom to experiment, tell stories through form and create objects that go beyond their practical purpose. This is the direction I feel most inspired to explore further.
Let’s Create Something
Have an idea for a new product? I’d love to hear about it.
I’m open to collaborations with brands, companies and creative teams. Let’s create something unexpected together.
Get in touch:
Email — [Berumonara@mail.ru]
Telegram — [@tsuukiya]
