Phillip Tretyakov: Designing with Heart, Working Together, and Practicing Empathy
ESH co-founder and art director Phillip Tretyakov explains why clear goals, emotional connection, and a touch of “design therapy” are essential for creating vibrant and meaningful projects.
Valera Kozhanov: Running a Studio, Focusing on What Matters, and Staying Zen
ESH co-founder Valera Kozhanov never planned to be a director. However, for the past few years, he has been managing the studio, creating meaningful work with people he trusts.
Stefan Lashko: Really Listening, Embracing Professional Exploration, and Keeping it Real
ESH co-founder and art director Stefan Lashko shares how to reconcile collaboration with deadlines and budgets without compromising himself.
Violetta Postnova: Trying out Seriousness, Losing Purpose, and Taking Care of Relationships
ESH partner and digital art director Violetta Postnova talks about the complex yet interesting — the crisis in teaching, difficulties with clients, and the search for meaning in a profession where creativity coexists with pragmatism.
Polina Syrvatka: Managing Anxiety, Finding Beauty in Communication, and Avoiding Creative Crises
Ideas are her superpower. Designer Polina shares how she keeps the creativity flowing and steers clear of burnout with a mix of sensitivity, openness, and the occasional refreshing swim.
Kirill Turygin: Finding Meaning in Design, Valuing Work and Facing Criticism without Fear
Why do people stick with design? Designer Kirill shares why he keeps coming back to the profession despite trying to leave—and why evolving within it is far more intriguing than walking away for good.
Boris Karakaev: Getting Inspired by Colleagues, Surviving Crises, and Not Giving in to Regret
From engineering to studio life to freelancing, independent motion and digital designer Boris shares why feedback from colleagues matters more than client praise, how self-doubt can fuel growth, and why past regrets don’t hold him back.
Katya Daugel-Dauge: Pivoting Careers, Spotting Red Flags, and Staying True to Your Core
Katya, a type designer at ESH, shares her journey into typeface creation, explaining how her values guide her project choices, and why when it comes to communication she prefers to ditch the formalities.
Aleona Melnikova: Putting Care First, Finding Work-Life Balance, and Rebuilding Identity After the Storm
Art director Aleona explores if it’s possible to move past survival mode, prioritize self-care, manage energy, and still stay true to being a designer—in life and work.
Anna Kolysheva: Bridging Extremes and Defying Criticism
A senior designer and illustrator, Anya shares her design journey—from first illustrations to major projects—and the lessons she learned about dealing with stress, self-validation, and toxic criticism.
Katia Rudaia: Rebuilding Identity Abroad, Finding the Right Tone, and Taming Perfectionism
Editor and copywriter Katia has worked in several fields, but the common thread has always been language—a way to simplify, and share ideas. Now, as she adapts to life abroad, she uses this skill also to build a sense of belonging.
Dasha Gadalova: Finding Herself in Design, Coping with Self-Criticism, and Learning to Celebrate Wins
What is the most difficult part of being a designer? Dasha Gadalova believes it’s not external criticism, but self-criticism. She shares how she deals with imposter syndrome, and why competition frustrates her.
Danil Matlakhov: Staying Free, Ditching Comparisons, and Not Checking Out Emotionally
For Danil, fresh out of uni, design is more than just crafting visuals—it’s a journey of self-discovery, navigating criticism, and dreaming of freedom beyond the confines of the industry.
Nastia Vedeniapina: Being Honest, Tackling Big Expectations, and Drawing the Line Between Work and Life
Nastia is now 20, works at ESH, and is learning to set boundaries. She shares why honesty matters to her more than commerce, how to handle disappointment, and where to find ideas.
Jenya Maximova: Becoming a Team Player, Honoring Her Vision, and Breaking Through Creative Blocks
Designer, art director, and creative Jenya Maximova shares how navigating through roles, balancing style with client needs and fostering dialogue help bring ideas to life and create kind and meaningful design.
Masha Lutsenko: Balancing Vision with Business, Crafting Meaning, and Practicing Empathy
How to go from career setbacks to personal growth and creative freedom? Strategist Masha shares insights on bridging visionary ideas with business realities, managing sensitive designer dynamics, and forging a professional path for herself.
Katya Molchanova: Embracing the Unknown, Owning Feedback, and Staying True to What You Believe
Graphic designer Katya talks about how she handles shame and ethical challenges, and what helped her improve her relationship with feedback. Plus, why sometimes all she needs is a good bath.
Introducing ESH Playlists: the Blend of Music and Design
Branding isn't just visual anymore.
Design Your Job: 4 Steps to Getting Hired at Your Dream Design Studio
Seeking your next design role? This article unveils hiring tactics and tips to enhance your application, from crafting your cover letter to reflecting on your values as a designer.
Building a Better Brand: Why Research is Key
Want to boost your brand platform? Learn how research can help you understand the market, define your visual identity, and set you apart from competition. Real-life examples included.
4 Essential Skills for Designers We Don’t Talk About Enough
Become a better designer with the advice of our co-founder and creative director, Phillip Tretyakov.
Main Characters: Meet the Designers of ESH Gruppa
Get to know the faces behind the designs that are making a difference.
Build Your Brand Identity: Style Guide vs. Brand Book
Unpacking tools for consistent brand identity. Learn about formats, read Stefan Lashko's review of his favourite style guide, and access a set of inspiration links.
Maximizing Your Website’s First Year: Our Strategies for Success
Launched a website, unsure of what comes next? Don't let your hard work go to waste — read on.
10 Reasons Why It Takes So Long To Make A Website
We break down why creating a killer website is well worth the wait.
How to Put Your Brand into Action (and why you may need help)
Ready to use your visual identity? Learn how to make your new brand work and why having a good design partner can help.