Margarita Valigun has been a Russian science and technology trailblazer since her early twenties. Now, she sets her sights on replicating this success in the American market. Renowned for her innovative engineering breakthroughs, Margarita has revolutionized design and lighting solutions. In Russia, she pioneered the use of cost-effective stretch ceilings, transforming them into striking interior elements through her unique developments. These innovations have captivated the attention of the country's top developers and positioned her as a leader in her field. As she ventures into the U.S. market, her goal is to bring the same level of ingenuity and impact that marked her career in Russia.
Margarita, you studied physics and mathematics before merging science and technology into a business venture. Tell us about the companies you've worked with.
My first job was at New Technologies, where I led a team in developing Aster, an innovative device for treating bronchial asthma. Its idea is based on the principles of wave radiation's impact on the bronchi and lungs. That position was my sole experience as a salaried employee.
So, you transitioned directly into entrepreneurship from there?
Yes, I ventured into entrepreneurship quite swiftly at the young age of 20. I've founded several companies, including Chimera, Ventakhim, and Profkrepezh. Profkrepezh, in particular, marked a pinnacle in my engineering career. There, we pioneered breakthrough solutions in design and finishing. We developed innovative facade fasteners, widely adopted by leading Russian developers like Tekhnonikol Corporation, known for their roofing, waterproofing, and thermal insulation materials. Our clientele included major developers like PIK Group of Companies and Invest-Stroy Group of Companies. We also collaborated with renowned interior designers, helping bring their visions to life, and even participated in the TV program "Kvartirnyi Question."
Can you share your experiences as a founder? What challenges did you face, and which skills helped you adapt to this role?
Initially, it was quite challenging. At 20, I invested all my earnings into education to gain a better understanding of my field. Soon, I discovered my entrepreneurial flair, leadership abilities, and strong intuition. I realized I'm not just an engineer executing projects but an entrepreneur capable of identifying market trends, anticipating demand, and creating in-demand products that outpace less advanced alternatives. My adventurous spirit drives me to constantly explore new, useful, and widely adoptable innovations.
Your work combines fundamental design and construction principles with innovative solutions to complex problems. Would you want to discuss some projects that followed this approach and how you found unique solutions?
My approach is hands-on, blending theoretical engineering with practical, real-world application. Recognizing gaps in construction and finishing solutions was straightforward for me. We analyzed the market, engaged with potential clients at exhibitions and conferences, and brainstormed ways to transform existing solutions into more beneficial, interesting options for consumers.
Take, for example, our pioneering work with stretch ceilings. We were among the first to actively use and enhance them, introducing novel design and lighting elements. I noticed a significant gap in engineering solutions in this sector, as the technology was just emerging in Russia. In a way, I contributed to the genesis of technical solutions in stretch ceiling installation.
I've always been intrigued by the construction field, particularly the technical aspects of interior design and the application of my mathematics and physics knowledge in this challenging arena. A major difficulty I've observed is the communication barrier between the artist-designer, who aims for aesthetic excellence, and the installer-technician, tasked with materializing these creative visions.
Can you elaborate on these innovative solutions and their applications?
I developed a unique stretch ceiling framework system using complex cross-section aluminum profiles. This allows for the implementation of multi-level stretch ceilings, including those with backlighting. I devised a simpler method for installing shadow ceilings with perimeter lighting and designed a technical solution for cornice niches. My developments have been instrumental in bringing a myriad of design concepts to life. Moreover, by utilizing LED lighting, we achieve bright, impressive, and durable illumination that is also eco-friendly due to its energy efficiency. These technical and engineering innovations have gained substantial popularity in the construction and decoration market, being adopted by major developers in their projects.
You've also invented and patented a solution for quickly erected premises, winning a presidential grant for its development. Tell us more about this technology and its potential uses.
The idea originated during the pandemic when hospitals were overwhelmed with patients. I thought about the potential of stretch film technology on aluminum frames for constructing rooms.
I developed a technology for assembling a fast-erecting aluminum frame with walls made of specialized PVC film. Specially designed profiles can be configured like building blocks to create rooms of various shapes and sizes. The profile assembly process allows for nearly tool-free installation. This technology can transform large spaces like hangars, gymnasiums, or parking lots into several separate, comfortable, and, importantly, isolated rooms within a few days.
This solution could also aid in housing victims of natural disasters. I've applied for a patent in the United States and am planning to collaborate with foundations and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to deploy this technology for addressing social issues.
Your latest venture is Nova Ceiling, where you've taken your entrepreneurial skills to America. Can you tell us about Nova Ceiling's operations, the challenges you face in this new role, and your current projects?
Nova Ceiling, a venture I co-founded with a close friend, is essentially an evolved version of Profkrepezh, which I previously sold in Russia. It represents my effort to introduce the American market to the advantages of stretch ceilings. In the U.S., modern, designer finishes aren't as widespread and tend to be accessible mostly to the upper-middle class and wealthier individuals. My goal here, much like what I achieved in Russia since the early 2010s, is to popularize this concept, continue my engineering work, enhance my existing solutions, and tailor them for the U.S. market.
We have a dedicated team, including a designer and installers, utilizing my unique engineering solutions to realize various design concepts with stretch ceilings. My plan is to keep innovating in construction and finishing and, eventually, venture into the modular market.
Modular structures are gaining traction in construction. How do you view the prospects of this market segment, and what sparked your professional interest in it?
Modular structures and frame modular buildings offer significant advantages, including shorter construction times and lower costs for the client, both in terms of materials and labor savings. The market for rapidly erected residential modules is burgeoning, particularly as a solution for housing vulnerable population segments. It's an expansive market with potential for growth, especially in areas like camping and glamping. My plan is to delve into this segment once Nova Ceiling is firmly established in its core business. This expansion will also enable me to secure funding to promote the concept of quickly erected modular structures.
In your work, you employ team-building and workflow optimization skills to enhance productivity. Could you share some examples from your experience, detailing the challenges you've faced and the outcomes achieved?
When I relocated to the U.S. in 2020, I began remotely managing the Profcrepez team, which was quite a challenge but one I successfully navigated. I continued conducting engineering surveys and studying U.S. engineering regulations. In Russia, I appointed a commercial director to oversee Profkrepizh's employees and manage operations. My management style is inspirational; I avoid enforcing rigid work hours. Instead, I set clear tasks and deadlines, allowing my team the autonomy to manage their schedules and achieve results. Their motivation is results-driven, with salaries linked to meeting deadlines. This approach, coupled with a specific mindset and dedication to efficient work rather than extended hours, has been key to our continued success.
You've consistently enhanced your professional skills through education in various fields. Can you discuss your educational journey and how you decide which new skills to acquire at each stage of your development?
I believe that a successful individual possesses a broad perspective and at least a basic knowledge of all specialties relevant to their work. When we were importing equipment and components, I completed a customs course and obtained a broker's license. As we ventured into house design, I earned a civil and commercial engineering degree. To better understand business finances, I took accounting courses. I've also studied legal aspects to manage my business adeptly. This knowledge is invaluable in employee hiring, helping to distinguish true professionals and prevent deception.
What trends are you observing in the design and engineering market? What are people looking for in their homes?
Currently, there's a shift towards simplicity, minimalism, and laconic designs in both house decoration and construction. Ornate features like wainscotting, arches, and stucco are fading out of favor, replaced by glass elements and lightweight structures. People desire more natural light a sense of spaciousness, and prefer subdued, well-placed design lighting rather than bold, striking colors. The solutions I've developed align perfectly with these trends, offering simple, elegant, and accessible options for a broad consumer base.
