Ukrainian designer Vladislav Tolochko discusses his first collaboration with the Italian brand Potocco and the creation of the Lounge Pony, exhibited at Salone del Mobile.Milano.
Potocco presented several new products added to its 2025 portfolio during Salone del Mobile.Milano, among which the Lounge Pony by Ukrainian designer Vladislav Tolochko. This collaboration marks the first time the young designer works with Potocco. We wanted to get the back story of how they connected and how Tolochko succeeded in connecting the brand’s visual alphabet, as it is described—linear minimalism with a more informal, bolder character— to his design mind and creative processes.
The upholstered seat reveals full volumes, compact proportions, and sinuous shapes. The cylindrical pattern of the legs follows the entire silhouette of the lounge, while the internal structure makes it durable. The comfort and softness of the padding and upholstery along with the ‘made in Italy’ signature of Potocco attracted our attention, not to mention the style. Designed to embellish modern living rooms, designer living rooms, and large contract projects, Pony offers a dynamic and comfortable seating solution.
Life in the Shoes of a Ukrainian Designer: Disaster as a Landscape for Inspiration
ArchiExpo e-Magazine: How would you describe your career journey as a designer?
Vladislav Tolochko: My career as a designer began when I was still a young student searching for ways to express my creativity and bring bold ideas to life. While studying architecture, I realized that the profession in Ukraine felt quite rigid and limiting to my creativity. In my final year, I accidentally took part in a regional competition, creating my first lighting fixture.
Unexpectedly, it quickly gained popularity on various online platforms. That moment became a turning point, inspiring me to explore furniture design alongside architecture and interior design. After that, I won several furniture design competitions in Ukraine, which led to one collaboration after another with Ukrainian furniture brands.
In 2023, I secured my first collaboration with an international brand, and in 2025, I had the honor of working with one of my favorite brands—Potocco.
ArchiExpo e-Magazine: What does it mean, in your opinion, to be a Ukrainian designer today?
Vladislav Tolochko: Being a Ukrainian designer today means being someone who has not been consumed by the catastrophe of war, sorrow, and loss. Designers are working under extreme conditions, which, in turn, give rise to entirely new objects, unique ideas, and groundbreaking innovations. We reflect on beauty while being in the epicenter of war, surrounded by landscapes that offer little inspiration.
Yet, I believe we are currently witnessing the Renaissance of Ukrainian design—a new era of Ukrainian avant-garde. The designers of today will undoubtedly leave their mark on the history of art.
Being the First Collaboration between Tolochko and Potocco
ArchiExpo e-Magazine: How did you get connected with Potocco for this first collaboration?
Vladislav Tolochko: I have been following Potocco for a long time and have always been inspired by their collections and style. Their understanding of design and aesthetics has always felt close to me, so one day, I decided to send them my concept for the Pony chair. When I received the message that my idea resonated with the Potocco team and that they were interested in bringing it to life, I was overjoyed. I truly look forward to meeting this talented and inspiring team in person very soon.
ArchiExpo e-Magazine: What’s the story behind Pony? Why did you choose to call it this?
Vladislav Tolochko: While working on this collection, I was inspired by the image of wild ponies freely galloping across endless meadows. I wanted to capture their grace, strength, and individuality. The name came naturally—simple and intuitive. I wasn’t striving for complexity; instead, through geometric forms and fluid lines, I sought to convey the silhouette of this untamed creature.
Every Object a Story to Be Told
ArchiExpo e-Magazine: What is it about the Lounge Pony that stands out against other chairs of its kind?
Vladislav Tolochko: Every object I create feels like a child to me. First, you nurture the idea for a long time, carefully searching for the right shapes, proportions, and materials. Then, finally, a unique piece is born—filled with love, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering dedication to design. That’s why I believe every piece is truly one of a kind, carrying a story known only to its author and creator.
At the same time, our collection stands out by striking a delicate balance—its forms are simple, yet its craftsmanship is intricate; its name is straightforward, yet its philosophy is profound. I believe this collection has every chance of becoming a favorite for years to come. The Pony chair is not just furniture; it is an art object. Its striking form allows it to stand on its own, becoming the focal point of any interior.
ArchiExpo e-Magazine: What impression do you hope to leave visitors of the Salone?
Vladislav Tolochko: I have just one wish for the visitors of the exhibition and all those who experience this collection: simply enjoy it. Immerse yourself in its aesthetics, embrace its comfort, and let the pieces speak for themselves—because sometimes, they say more than words ever could.
Did you miss our coverage of the Brera Design Apartment under the creative eyes of Zanellato/Bortotto for the Fuorisalone 2025? Read it here.
