About Us

My name is Maria Hitcher, and I am the founder of Cegla Studios — a design studio that blends traditional Ukrainian craftsmanship with contemporary design. We create unique handmade objects that bring meaning, warmth, and identity into modern spaces.

I began my creative journey in fashion design. At 19, while studying at KNUTD, I launched my first clothing brand and showcased a collection at Mercedes-Benz Kiev Fashion Days. The collection received international recognition in Vogue Italia, L’Officiel, Harper’s Bazaar, and more. After winning the Vogue Italia contest, I presented my work at Milan Fashion Week and went on to spend nine years in the fashion industry — leading launches, productions, and creative projects for Ukrainian and international designers.

Over time, I found myself looking for something more meaningful — a slower, more thoughtful creative process. Volunteering during the early stages of the full-scale war in Ukraine led me to explore Ukrainian heritage crafts. I became deeply inspired by traditional techniques and the stories behind them.

That’s how Cegla Studios was born — from a desire to preserve and rethink Ukrainian craft in modern forms. Our first collection was created in collaboration with willow weaving artisans from the Carpathian region. We developed a unique material that combines willow and a custom gypsum-based blend, turning traditional hut-building techniques into sculptural lighting pieces. Today, Cegla Studios offers large floor and pendant lamps, textile lighting, and mirrors made using our in-house developed coating — lightweight, durable, and designed for contemporary interiors.

Every piece we make is handcrafted using local and sustainable materials. A textile floor lamp, for example, takes over 160 hours to complete — every pleat is shaped and sewn by hand. Our work reflects a feminine sensibility: care, detail, and a dedication to comfort and storytelling. Cegla Studios has already earned recognition in Ukraine and abroad — from interior designers to exhibitions like Ukrainian Design Week and 3daysofdesign in Copenhagen.

My goal is to grow Cegla Studios into an internationally recognized brand — one that brings Ukrainian heritage into global design dialogue. I believe in design as a form of cultural responsibility, and in handmade work as a tool for connection, continuity, and change.