Hello and welcome to another Material Deep Dive, where I break down some materials in their entirety alongside use cases of said materials in the real world. This time we’re looking at more applications of biobased materials across architecture, interior design and product design. If you missed the first part of this deep dive, catch up via this link. Enjoy!

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Before We Dive In….

1. Bio-Based Materials in Design: What they are, how they work, and why they matter in sustainable design. A closer look at the materials redefining how we design, build, and think about sustainability.

2. What Happened In The World Of Design This Week: Sabine Marcelis’ installation for this year’s Coachella, Design Week Lagos takes seven designers to Salone, Stockholm’s Furniture Week releases their list of exhibitors alongside new initiatives.

1. The Linum Tube

Designed by Jonathan Radetz, the Linum Tube Project rethinks the art of seating via a combination of biobased flax fibre textiles and steel. The project is a collaborative research project between studio Jonathan Radetz and the Fraunhofer WKI from Germany.

The core idea was to create ecologically sustainable seating furniture for circularity with components made out of pure materials such as functionalized, open, multilayered wearvings in combination with tubular steel structures, that can be separated from each other through non-destructive disassembly, which allows the components to be reused, rearranged and returned to the material cycle.

The fabric used in this project adds comfort, texture and ambient lighting through integrated LED channels, which show how material innovation can elevate both function and atmosphere.

2. Biocolumns by Crafting Plastics

The idea behind this project began with a question: What if the architecture around us could breathe, signal and adapt? What if plastics were not wasteful and inert, but responsive, living-like companions? The answer led to biocolumns, made out of hydroponic systems and responsive bioplastics.

And the project explores how materials can actively support plant life while making processes of care visible. Biocolumn is lightweight, adaptable and has modular elements that function both as structural components and hosts for plant life. Features include a built-in circulation system supported by a pump that moves up and down, and hydroponic cultivation, so plants grow without soil.

The product was made from biodegradable materials derived from renewable sources; hence, the surface is coated with a pH-reactive bioplastic indicator that changes colour from pink to purple when acidity levels exceed the optimal range for most indoor plants. The Biocolums project integrates cultivation, material innovation and environmental feedback into a single living framework and shifts the role of material from passive to responsive.

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3. Muratto Collection with Momentum

The Muratto product line is made from 100% natural, renewable cork that has been responsibly harvested to preserve thriving forests and biodiversity. The collection consists of products that make up interiors that honour nature while nurturing a thoughtfully designed environment built to last.

The collection is a partnership between Muratto, a cork purveyor and has a line of all-natural, acoustic wallcoverings that are renewable, biodegradable and made with zero waste. The collection consists of Design Blocks, Cork Ships, and Acoustic Panels.

4. Trees From The Garden Lamps by MJ Fraser

Made out of biodegradable thermoplastic, this collection is developed from MJ’s impressions of trees found in his childhood garden. The lamps are made from a biodegradable thermoplastic and establish a material system that combines organic references with synthetic processing.

The collection educates you about the use of trees in design by focusing on the external surface qualities rather than the conventional timber extraction. This approach/process captures textures, irregularities, and natural patterns tha translates them into modular components.

5. CornWall

A collaboration between StoneCycling (now known as FRONT®) and Circular Matters, CornWall is made out of a pressing process that’s used to create reusable walls from discarded corn cobs; the CornWall is seen as a suitable alternative for interior wall cladding. The corn cobs used were sourced from Western European corn and were considered waste after being harvested.

The current CornWall collection consists of one texture, eight colours (Burgundy, DarkBlue, LightBlue, LightGreen, MustardYellow, RustRed, TeracottaPink and WarmBeige) and two sizes; it absorbs carbon dioxide and can hold onto it for a long haul, making it a climate-positive product. CornWall is designed to come off walls by simply peeling it off with care and plastering it back onto another space or product in the house.

6. Mogu Floor Tiles

These floor tiles are a collection of bio-based resilient tiles used across interior design and architecture. The majority of the products have 87% biobased resin that constitutes the top aesthetic layer, which makes the floor tile products able to resist heels, scratches and abrasions like any conventional floor.

7. Corn Veneer Furniture

The corn veneer furniture collection is designed by Fernando Laposse, a Mexican innovator who consistently shows how waste materials from other consumables can be utilized in making new materials.

Totomoxtle shows the beautiful, natural colour range gotten from the species of native corn that exists in Mexico (varying from soft creams and deep purples), where each husk is carefully cut and peeled off the combined flat and glued on a paper pulp or textile backing.

8. BOGHT by Studio Jelmer Reus

Jelmer Reus is a Dutch designer and furniture maker with a focus on designing products with sustainable and circular design, especially from residual materials to create new products. He developed Multylino, a new material made out of leftover Desktop Furniture Linoleum from Forbo Flooring.

His BOGHT piece is a single sheet of Multylino that flows into a chair that has a subtle spring in the backrest, allowing form and function to merge seamlessly without mechanical components. The BOGHT chair is made out of 14 layers of waste linoleum (including soft lilac, iron, vapour, mushroom, olive, coniver) and its properties (resilience, structure and flexibility) are the foundation for a functional object at the intersection of art and design. Other products in the Multylino collection include Meeror.

Join the conversation by following us on Instagram and commenting on more biobased materials and their applications across different forms, and I’ll see you in the next one.

Hello and welcome to another Material Deep Dive, where I break down some materials in their entirety alongside use cases of said materials in the real world. We’ve done some deep dives on a few materials, including mycelium, timber, ceramic and stucco. Feel free to catch up on those before digesting these.

In case you missed last week’s design news, be brought up to speed via this link. Here are a few articles for you to catch up on. Enjoy!

1. What Happened In The World Of Design This Week? Salú Iwadi lamp collection celebrates women as a generative force of life, SketchUp commissioned Tola Ojuolape to design Collector’s Lounge for the 2026 Edition of the Collect Art Fair, and lots more

2. Brand Spotlight: Mowo Studio. A design studio that designs unconventional seating with fine molded plywood; the end results of combining birch and beech wood fibre.

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What are bio-based materials? This guide breaks down their types, performance, benefits, and real-world applications in sustainable architecture and design.

With the simplest definition, bio-based materials are materials derived wholly or partly from living or once-living organisms, be it plants, animals, fungi, or microorganisms.

Think:

• timber

• cork

• mycelium

• hemp

• algae-based composites

But this definition alone doesn’t capture their real significance.

Bio-based materials are not new. In fact, they are among the oldest materials in architecture, used in vernacular buildings across cultures for centuries. What’s changed is the context.

Today, they are being reintroduced not as tradition, but as a response to crisis:

• rising carbon emissions

• extractive material systems

• overdependence on fossil-based products

Unlike concrete, steel, or plastic (materials tied to industrial extraction), bio-based materials are derived from renewable biomass and can often be regenerated, reused, or returned safely to the environment.

And that shift (from extraction to regeneration) is what makes them one of the most important material conversations today.

Bio-Based vs Synthetic Materials: What’s the Difference?

To understand the role of bio-based materials in design today, it helps to look at what they are positioned against.

Most modern buildings and products rely heavily on synthetic and industrial materials (think concrete, steel, plastics, and petrochemical-based composites). These materials are typically extracted from finite resources, energy-intensive to produce and are part of a linear lifecycle.

Bio-based materials operate differently.

They are derived from renewable biological sources such as plants, fungi, and agricultural by-products, and are often part of a more circular material system:

a. grown rather than extracted.

b. potentially biodegradable or reusable.

c. capable of storing carbon during their lifecycle.

But the distinction isn’t always straightforward. Bio-based does not automatically mean biodegradable. And it doesn’t always mean lower impact in every scenario

For example, a poorly sourced timber product can have a higher environmental cost than a well-engineered industrial material. Similarly, some bio-based composites include synthetic binders, blurring the line between natural and engineered.

What this means for designers is simple. The conversation is no longer about choosing between natural and synthetic, but about understanding material systems, lifecycle, and impact.

To understand bio-based materials, you have to understand what they are replacing.

Synthetic / Industrial Materials are:

• Derived from fossil fuels or mined resources

• Energy-intensive to produce

• High carbon footprint

• Often non-biodegradable

Bio-Based Materials are:

• Derived from renewable biological sources

• Lower embodied energy

• Often biodegradable or recyclable

• Can store carbon during growth

But here’s where nuance matters: Bio-based does not automatically mean biodegradable. And it does not always mean “better” in every context

The real distinction is this: Bio-based materials are part of a circular system, while synthetic materials are largely part of a linear one.

And design today is increasingly moving toward the former.

Types of Bio-Based Materials Used in Design

Bio-based materials are incredibly diverse, but they generally fall into a few key categories:

1. Plant-Based Materials

Plant-based (bio-based) materials are designed to be sustainable alternatives to plastic and synthetic materials. These types of materials are obtained from renewable, organic forestry or agricultural sources. Some examples are timber, bamboo, hemp or cork.

MABĒ Bio is an example of startups using plant-based materials in design. The Brazilian startup that uses plant-based materials (they are developing plant-based materials sourced from native Brazilian plants). The start-up’s first material, ANGICO LEATHER, is similar to cowhide leather but made from plants and free from plastics and toxic chemicals.

2. Agricultural Waste Materials

Think of these materials like straw panels, rice husk boards, corn-based composites, and orange peels, which utilize biomass waste to create sustainable alternatives like biodegradable plastics, packaging, and construction materials.

Atelier Biab’s Compose to Decompose project is a good example of materials derived from agricultural waste (bio-based). The project began in 2021 as an idea of working with discarded food. They used eggshells, artichoke bracts, and coffee grounds, alongside a plant-based binder invented through in-house research.

The goal of this project was to find the material of the future, which in turn taught them how to listen, how to shape and how to stay with something until it reveals its form. The formed material is biodegradable, heat-safe, water-resistant, durable and a composite that can be pressed, shaped, and finished without industrial tooling

3. Bio-Composites

These materials combine biological materials with binders to improve strength and usability. Materials like hempcrete, bio-resins, natural fibre composites and food waste are a few examples.

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Rosy Napper’s ReCinder project is a good example that fits into this section. The London-based ceramic material researcher and designer is known for ReCinder, a material Rosy developed from 100% recycled, discarded ceramic and waste ash derived from landfills.

The ReCinder project was a showcase of homeware products, including table lamps made out of recycled porcelain, buff and terracotta ceramic, alongside porcelain tableware and was displayed at the 2024 Material Matter exhibition.

The Design Diary covered the 2024 Material Matter event and did a spotlight on Rosy Napper’s project. Catch up here.

4. Living / Engineered Materials

Otherwise known as Engineered Living Materials, these materials represent the notion that materials can be grown, not only manufactured. Across these categories, what’s emerging is not just a new set of materials, but a new way of thinking about material production itself.

Mogu is an example of a startup exploring the potential use of Engineered Living Materials (mycelium, in this case) in diverse application sectors. The company’s cutting technology is based on the vegetative stage of mushrooms, which is mycelium.

Mogu’s Biotopia wave acoustic panels project is soft, ethereal wall panels that evoke the sensation of wandering through hills covered in fresh snow. The mycelium is naturally white, but can be custom coloured from a wide palette of options. Their colour palette is inspired by beautiful tones of water, forests, earth and sand, where options of blue, green, earth tones and warm/cold neutrals with subtle variations.

Performance of Bio-Based Materials in Design

One of the biggest barriers to the adoption of bio-based materials is the assumption that they are less durable, less reliable, weaker or purely experimental. In reality, many bio-based materials offer highly functional performance characteristics, particularly when used intentionally within design systems.

1. Thermal Performance

Materials like hemp, cork, and mycelium provide excellent insulation, helping regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption.

2. Moisture Regulation

Many bio-based materials are hygroscopic, meaning they can absorb and release moisture. This helps stabilize indoor humidity levels and improve comfort.

3. Acoustic Properties/Performance

Their natural porosity makes them effective for sound absorption, making them ideal for interiors, workspaces, and public environments.

4. Carbon Storage

Unlike conventional materials, many bio-based materials act as carbon sinks, storing carbon absorbed during the growth phase of the organism.

5. Structural Capabilities

Certain bio-based materials, such as engineered timber, can perform structurally at a high level, rivalling traditional construction materials when properly designed.

6. Hygroscopic Behaviour

They can absorb and release moisture, helping regulate indoor humidity and improving comfort.

Where Challenges Still Exist

Performance is not without trade-offs:

• sensitivity to moisture if untreated

• fire resistance considerations

• variability in quality depending on sourcing

This is where design becomes critical.

Bio-based materials don’t perform in isolation —
they perform as part of a designed system.

And when that system is well thought out, its performance can be not just comparable, but in some cases superior to conventional materials.

Benefits of Bio-Based Materials in Design

1. Lower Carbon Footprint

Bio-based materials generally emit less CO₂ during production and can even act as carbon sinks.

2. Renewability

They are sourced from materials that can be regrown or replenished over time.

3. Circularity

Many can be reused, recycled, or biodegraded, aligning with circular design principles.

4. Aesthetic and Sensory Qualities

Bio-based materials introduce texture, warmth and irregularity to the spaces they occupy. They bring a human, tactile dimension often missing in industrial materials.

5. Energy Efficiency

Their insulating properties can reduce long-term energy use in buildings.

Some Applications Across Architecture, Interiors and Product Design

Bio-based materials are no longer experimental; they are now seen and applied across different design disciplines, including:

1. Architecture

Nina’s House is a building project wrapped in cork. The 1970’s building was done in collaboration with Nina+Co, ROAR Architects and Waxwing Energy. The building project was a revamp that focused on updating the building’s existing fabric and improving the thermal performance.

The building’s exterior is wrapped in panels of expanded cork, which has a dark and mottled look. The choice of material, cork, was an option when Nina Woodcroft, founder of Nina+Co, used the same material on a project and was marvelled at not only the material’s regenerative and versatile qualities; the cork material is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees and has durability and insulating properties.

2. Interiors

a. VANK is a Polish company dedicated to designing and producing furniture made with sustainable and circular materials, and they work with European designers who go for well-defined and sophisticated forms in their design practice. As stated in their manifesto, they use honest materials to translate their passion into works that fully meet the greatest aesthetic challenges.

Their Ellipse Column acoustic panels are designed to be 100% sustainable and contribute to the development of the circular economy. Vank’s proprietary technology makes use of renewable, recycled and bio-based materials and, as a result, produces sound attenuation and makes rooms soundproof.

The acoustic panels are made from a biocomposite based on fibrous plants like flax and hemp.

3. Product Design

Shell Homage, founded by Rania Elkalla, is a global-winning sustainable brand that provides biodegradable composite material out of discarded eggshells and different nutshells.

The recent collection in collaboration with Hettler Tüllmann, the LUNE Collection, are table tops made from and dyed with organic matter such as egg and nutshells.

Challenges and Limitations

Despite their promise, bio-based materials face real constraints:

1. Scalability

Can they meet global construction demand?

2. Cost

Some remain more expensive than conventional alternatives.

3. Regulation and Standards

Building codes are still catching up.

4. Perception

Many designers still see them as experimental, fragile and as an alternative rather than mainstream

5. Performance Concerns

Moisture, durability, and fire resistance still require careful design solutions.

Are Bio-Based Materials the Future of Design?

I am certain the answer is not a simple yes or no. Bio-based materials will not replace all conventional materials, but they will redefine how we think about materials.

The future is likely hybrid:

a. bio-based materials

b. engineered composites

c. low-carbon industrial systems

What’s clear is this:

The most important shift is not just what materials we use. But how those materials are produced, sourced, and understood. Bio-based materials push design toward:

regeneration over extraction, systems over objects and processes over products. Bio-based materials are not just a category of materials—they are a shift in mindset.

They challenge the idea that materials must be:

• extracted

• processed

• discarded

And instead propose that materials can be:

• grown

• adapted

• reintegrated

For designers, architects, and builders, the question is no longer: Should we use bio-based materials? But, how do we design with them intelligently?

I am sure you will enjoy this piece as much as I enjoyed working on it. Subscribe to get more weekly material deep dives. And I’d see you in the next one.

Hello there, and welcome to this week’s digest!

Make yourself comfortable and explore our sections. If you have any thoughts or feedback, just hit reply—I read every response.

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Before You Dive In…

Here are some recent pieces you can start with:

• Brand Spotlight: From Eindhoven, a studio dedicated to reimagining colour by integrating graphic visuals, photographic elements, and product innovation.

• Copenhagen in 72 Hours: What 3daysofdesign Taught Me About Beauty, Function, and Feeling: Charis' Personal Edit of Thoughtful, Playful, and Poetic Design at 3daysofdesign.

• Musings From Clerkenwell Design Week 2025: A curation of interesting finds at Clerkenwell.

3daysofdesign may have come and gone, but there are still lots of observations the design world can look at. In the first part of our series, where we unpacked the event, we looked at how beauty, function and feeling found their way at the event.

In this second phase of the series, we’re looking at how materials were reimagined and showcased at the event. Enjoy the read.

1. The New Raw

Rotterdam-based The New Raw is constantly seeking better ways of applying the circular economy concepts that push the boundaries of technological and social innovation. They see plastic waste as a resourceful material and transform the material into sustainable, high-quality furniture through the use of robotic 3D printing.

They use the layer-by-layer approach, which enhances the material’s (plastic) natural irregularities and celebrates its transformation into functional and tactile objects.

For 3daysofdesign, they showcased a number of their products, including the Ermis Chair, the X Bench, and the Pot Plus, which are made out of the rPP material.

2. Soui & Kufu

Led by Shogo Sekine and Ren Ueno, Soui & Kufu’s design features a universal system for anyone to build, scrap and carry on the go.

Their pieces can do without tools and screws and are built or crafted using regenerative products like salvaged ocean plastics and domestically grown birch wood.

For 3daysofdesign, they showcased a new colour variant for the DISC TYPE ONE, DECK TYPE TWO piece.

3. Hydro

Hydro is a leading aluminum and renewable energy company committed to a sustainable future. Hydro is behind 100R, which had a huge success at last year’s Milan Design Week exhibition.

Their 100R exhibition is made out of 100% post-consumer aluminum, alongside all components used in the exhibition design.

For 3daysofdesign, Orbit, Profil, Rør, Fields and Boss were displayed and showcased by their respective designers to show the dynamics of the aluminum material.

4. Peach Corner

An artist-run exhibition space led by a group of 12 ceramicists, Peach Corner, represents how ceramics can take different expressions across craft, design and visual arts in a fairly fluid field.

For 3daysofdesign, both young talents and experienced designers demonstrated their passion for and insight into ceramics. Some designers’ work were made out of low-tech and roused clay.

5. Søuld

Søuld’s products are made out of eelgrass, which is collected in Denmark and can be used in several applications, including building materials, design solutions, ceilings and walls.

For 3daysofdesign, 3 Danish brands, including Søuld - RYE, We Do Good, and MOFARASU, showed a transformed intimate studio apartment into a living space that was inspired by nature.

The studio combined eelgrass, wood, and minimalist design.

6. Essis by Lasilinkki

A one-of-a-kind, third-generation glass brand based in Finland, their popular patterns are the retro circles and stripes, which are handmade and tempered safety glass.

They are Nordic’s only creator of artisan glass that showcases how glass can transform light, space and atmosphere.

7. KunstIndustrien

Kunst deals with not just any kind of candles, but candles whose wax is hand-cast and made out of vegetable stearins and paraffins.

Their candles not only burn slowly but also neatly, stably and without any fumes or odours.

8. Dublo Studio

The core material in use here is the potential of the tree bark.

For 3daysofdesign, the studio showcased a number of projects made out of tree bark/fibrewood, including the Plane Tree Cabinet, the Plane Tree Stool and the Plane Table collection.

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This is the second observation from the 3daysofdesign. To get started on the first observation, click on this link and let me know what you think. Let me know in the comments which of the materials or projects stood out to you.

I grew up with many ceramic plates, saucers, and utensils to display or serve special guests or visitors who visited us. I once stumbled on some unopened ceramic sets that were part of my parents’ wedding gifts and souvenirs - and that was just about it.

As I got older and saw myself as a big girl, I dished my meals in those special ceramic plates, bowls and saucers because they carried this aura that I liked - royalty, nobility, grace and class.

Did some slip and break from my hands? Multiple times but that didn’t stop me from using those plates. This little backstory above may resonate with a number of you - growing up with ceramic plates or utensils and our parents leaving them for special occasions like events or for visitors; not to also mention the constant breakages, cracks and slips of our fingers.

This deep dive will cover how ceramics has evolved into what was formerly reserved for special cases - events, visitors - into what can be termed or classified as a global movement.

We also cover different techniques and methods used in creating ceramic products, it’s various applications in the design and architecture spaces. Our last month’s deep dive was on mycelium where we also looked at its applications across industries including fashion. If you want us to do a deep dive into materials you’ve been eyeing, drop your suggestions here.

Also catch up on our last piece: Ceramic Brussels.

An Introduction To Ceramics and Some Of Its Applications

Ceramics are non-metallic, crystalline materials that sometimes consist of oxides, bodies and nitride compounds. A common characteristic of ceramics is its HARd characteristics, which are chemically inert.

Ceramics in Greek is pronounced Keramikós, in Latin - tells, has no particular founder, but William David Kingery developed systematic methods for the study of ceramics, and for this, he was awarded the Kyoto Prize in 1999. Kingery was a specialist in refractory materials and began working on ceramics as a collection of technologies that he later described as akin to a craft industry. Kingery also built a theoretical foundation for ceramics on solid-state physics and crystallography, creating a new field called PHYSICAL CERAMICS.

Ceramics (products) are made from a combination of several materials including fired clay, some powders, feldspar, kaolinite, silicon carbide, tungsten carbide, and alumina oxide/alumina. Ceramics has found its way into the design and construction industry for several reasons including their aesthetic appeal, providing structural support and insulation. This tells us that activities revolving around ceramics are one of the oldest activities in human history. Apart from ceramics’ use in structures, it’s also used in building finishes. Ceramics can compose structural masonry ie ceramic blocks that have high strength and can be used to build ground floors and medium-sized buildings.

Another use of ceramics in the construction space is CLADDING, which allows ceramics to be used in a variety of technical and decorative pieces.

Ceramics have also been turned into an option for flooring. Ceramics come in a number of options - think porcelain, glass-ceramics, white-paste, terracotta and in a number of finishes - high glossed, matte, satin, varnished, lacquered, painted, patterned, smooth.

Florim’s SensiTerre collection is one major example that showcases the interpretation of the world of clays where artisanal tradition and technological innovation are blended. Get more information about this collection from the piece I wrote on them.

I Filati is another stunning collaboration between Florim and Rubelli. The collection produced centuries-old art of silk with large thick ceramic slabs that are presented as innovative fabrics, which are seductive to the eye and pleasant to touch.

The collaboration was a showcase of how Rubelli’s outstanding legacy of handcrafted fabrics brought to life one large porcelain slab. The slabs also evoke the centuries-old art of weaving with innovative surfaces that make it usually seductive and pleasant to touch, all thanks to the 3D surface decoration techniques.

Take Animo!, a Mexican breakfast outlet situated on the corner of 52nd Street and 2nd Avenue, that blends material and culinary references from Mexico, especially its breakfast culture. JMDS - Jordana Maisie Design Studio envisioned the Amino! Space as a calm respite and breakaway safe space from the busy business-focused neighbourhood it serves.

Common materials in the outlet include a facade of reeded concrete tiles and leather seat cushions that are pistachio green in colour and match the Heath Ceramics tiles laid along the rounded banquette backs and bases. Edith and Brian Heath founded Health Ceramics as a small-scale pottery in 1948. The company was relaunched in 2003 by Robin and Cathy.

Creators Working With Ceramics

Ulaku Finds, by Ugonna Eronini, is a Made in Nigeria brand, that collaborates with local artisans and craftspeople to create sustainable, eco-friendly and unique home decor pieces for the home. Initially named Uloaku but shortened to Ulaku, Ugonna found the inspiration on a trip to Kigali in 2022 and found a design studio after visiting to purchase some items. This experience sparked her interest in the sustainability and home decor space.

The brand has grown from an idea to a full-blown home decor brand, they also attended the Design Week Lagos 2024 event and some of their known pieces are the ÁJÁ, SPACE, EGWU, and WIND in beautiful colours.

Anna Margado, a Hamburg-based artist, is also a ceramicist who started working with ceramics in 2016. Her ceramic pieces revolve around material experimentation and refined design. Her works also centre around the home, and she’s fascinated by the relationship between ceramics and food. In addition, Anna takes on a membership workshop where she passes down knowledge about the ancestral power of clay and gives back to her community.

Element Clay Studio is another ceramic designer/creator who’s inspired by the natural world, modern design and fluid forms that are present in her works.

She’s averse to mass production and has remained dedicated to the practice of slow and intentional artistry, which ensures that each piece is one-of-a-kind and heirloom-worthy.

Warsaw-based potter Aleksander Kozera of Yird Ceramics started exploring a wide range of applied arts, including 3D printing, digital modelling, lighting design, and working with natural materials like woodworking and furniture design.

Alek became curious about ceramics, and by 2019, he had the confidence to work with porcelain, a material said to be beautiful yet challenging. His works are centred around patterned cups, plates, and home products.

Maria di Domenico, founder of Cotta Ceramics, makes fun home decor pieces. She got interested in ceramics in October 2021 which at the time started as her hobby. Maria makes cute handmade ceramic pieces that certainly brighten your day - ranging from kitchen decor, cute mushroom houses, cute (jacko) lanterns and cute animal plates and bowls.

Dani Kawaii of Dani Kawaii Studios is a ceramicist who turns clay into cute, girly pieces and accessories. Her ceramics journey started as a hobby as soon as basketball season ended. Some of her viral and well-known pieces are her fruit jars, aura bags, and mini-moons.

Patri, a Barcelona-based ceramics artist and creator behind Jeje.things make unique ceramic projects with the slab-building technique.

Patri’s pieces and works are original pieces, categorized by their decontextualized shapes and decorations that make you feel that pieces should belong in our surreal world. Her pieces are inspired by nature, flowers and the Mediterranean; her pieces’ shapes are a combination of basic geometric shapes.

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Brooklyn, founder of Cedar Sun Ceramics, makes pottery pieces that have whimsical shapes and bold colours. Her work is divided into 2 collections: the Sun Collection (bold, funky shapes) and the Cedar Collection (neutral pieces that juxtapose natural clay and bright white glaze).

Austin Coudriet is a ceramic sculptor known for his bold and colourful sculptures ranging from mugs, seating solutions and lamps.

Yasmin Falahat is another ceramicist and multi-disciplinary artist who makes pomegranate and fig ceramics inspired by her mixed heritage.

Her works also explore themes of cultural identity and community through food and personal stories.

Hana Karim of Hana Karum Studio is a Slovenia-born and based ceramicist and teacher. Apart from taking ceramics jewelry classes and hand-building tableware techniques; she also uses clay in her labour-intensive projects, something she considers a passion. Notwithstanding the challenges associated with working with clay, the material still finds a way to reignite her imagination.

Hana specializes in creating uniquely shaped tableware that are also practical; and come in vibrant colours. The colours in her pieces also serve as a channel to express the intricate connection with the micro-elements within the clay. The colour and texture are also influenced by minuscule particles, and the interplay of fire and glazes results in unforeseen hues and gradients.

Erin is another creator who makes ceramic products in small batches, particularly around matcha bowls, plates, vases, and ring dishes. Her pieces are in cute, imperfect colours and shapes.

Mine (pronounced Mee-nah) Burgess, is another ceramic artist that makes functional handmade pieces.

Her pieces include jewelry stands, baking dishes that are safe, dishwasher and oven-ready, candle scones, pendant lights, vases and any other functional piece you can think of.

Maria Vergara, a Spain-based potter who started in 2020, her pieces can be enjoyed in small and everyday moments, she had a stint as a florist hence, you can always see hints of flowers in her works.

Some of her pieces include asparagus, artichokes, cups, vases, jellyfish pots, and water balls. On her page, she frequently shows her process and well as educates her audience on her processes.

Claire Ceramics is another creator/artist who makes ceramic wares and animal-inspired pieces. These pieces range from duck matcha bowls, bear lamps, whale bowls, coasters, and vases/pitchers.

Claire Henry is another Glasgow-based ceramic artist who creates in small batches and also creates functional tableware inspired by rustic Scottish land spaces.

Every of Claire’s collections responds to the shifting colours and textures, elements and seasons found in Scotland’s wild and rugged landscapes. Her works also show her love for pattern, texture and surface design. The pieces are shaped by culinary tradition, daily routine and personal ritual.

Milly Dent is a celebrated designer and ceramicist who reimagines the everyday through handcrafted practical ceramic tableware, lighting and sculpture.

Driven by sustainability and slow living, Milly creates durable, long-lasting objects that are designed to be shared, reused, and admired (never replaced).

Milly also uses the small-scale production method to ensure each piece is carefully done and produced. her pieces show what it’s like to push the potential of porcelain while experimenting with conventionality.

Milo Made is another amazing ceramics designer who makes ugly mugs and tiny jugs. the colourful, sizeable pieces double as pieces of art or engage in everyday uses. Most of the pieces appear goofy.

Milo’s pieces are also created to be imperfect.

Merlin Kater is also a unique ceramic designer and artist who works with clay and was inspired by the material’s endless shaping possibilities and stone-like qualities when fired. His pieces often appear mechanical including this viral video of his that showcased the autonomous mobility of his sculpture.

Grace Juneau, behind the Snail Girl ceramics account, is inspired by snails - their slow pace, which has taught her some of life’s lessons like taking your time and enjoying the process. Her account and ceramic practice is an expression of patience, reflection and self-love through clay.

Grace uses this narrative to create pieces that sometimes rewrite the narrative, like this functional ceramic jewelry holder; as opposed to kitchenware like mugs, plates or bowls. Her bird pieces, which come in different designs pass the message of nature but in a fun way and narrative.

Her carrot jar is a piece that reminds us of growth and self-love. Every piece she makes passes the message of life’s lessons that can be applicable.

Rachael, the creator behind Aray by Rach, is a Bristol-based ceramist. Her works experiment with slab building, casting and wheel throwing which blends functional design with a passion for eccentric forms.

Her viral pieces - The Eclipse Lamp and Stacked Lamp show how functional her pieces go.

Sara Ekua Todd of Ekua Ceramics uses her ceramic pieces to honour her multi-ethnic upbringing. Her pieces are heavily influenced by her time living abroad as well as being raised in an artistic household. Her pieces consist of mugs, bow hook planters, tables, and tissue boxes.

Sequoyah Coy Johnson of the Coy collection creates pieces infused with playful nostalgia, blending functional fine art with self-love and care. Her pieces range from goblets, cups, mugs, bowls, shish, coasts and utensil crocks.

Ceramics Events and Fairs

1. Ceramic Art London

   Organized by the Craft Potters Association of Great Britain, this event has attracted over 6000 visitors from 30 countries. Each year, over 120+ exhibitors, from the UK and abroad exhibit their works that range from functional pieces to abstract creations that challenge the human imagination.

   This year’s event takes place from the 9th to the 11th of May and tickets are already on sale.

2. Ceramics Brussels

   An international art fair for contemporary ceramics which takes place at Tour & Taxis in Brussels. This year’s events took place from January 22 - 26, 2025

3. Taiwan Ceramics Biennale

   This biennale is held as a competition and has been hosted by the New Taipei City Yingye Ceramics Museum since 2004. It initially allowed ceramics artists from all over the world to submit their pieces to the competition. All pieces that were won were exhibited at the museum. From 2010 onward, the museum changed the event from a competition to a thematic system, which allows artists to collaborate on exhibitions fitting a designated theme.

Last year, the Taiwan Ceramic Biennale was held as a competition and marked the 10th edition of the event, setting a new record for the highest number of submissions with a total of 1216 from 66 countries.

4. Ceramitec

This is an international leading trade fair for the ceramics industry that gathers young talents, speakers, decision makers and key holders in the ceramic world. Latest innovations and state-of-the-art machines and products from the ceramic industry (and beyond) are presented here.

Ceramics Techniques

Given the different ways companies and artists maneuver and creatively design pieces with clay, here are some ceramic techniques:

• Glazing

This technique requires immersing your (ceramic) piece into a thick coat. The glazing technique is used for decoration and gives the products a glossy shine.

• Ceramic Slab Building

This involves rolling or stacking up clay into slabs or flat pieces. The clay is then manipulated or cut into a variety of shapes.

• Slip Casting

This technique is used in creating delicate pieces. It takes the process of the slip or liquid clay poured into a plaster mould.

• Ceramics Decoration

This technique involves making the (ceramic) piece aesthetically pleasing.

The kiln is an important instrument in the ceramics journey or process. It works like an oven but is an insulated chamber used for burning, firing, baking or hardening a substance, especially clay products.

Companies Working Differently With Ceramics

1. Studio Beams Castle Collection

This collection showcases handmade ceramics and wood light fixtures that come in a colourful variety of sizes and finishes. They come either as single pendants or as a connected set.

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2. Flexbrick

As an alternative to combining structural efficiency and environmental concerns; Flexbrick came up with facades that unite ceramic blocks and metal trusses. This company’s technological concept is regarded as ceramic textile which takes on an industrialized system that takes on the shape of flexible sheets of baked clay for tiling, cladding and laminated structure with a ceramic finish.

Solid ceramic blocks are being recognized for their ability to withstand compression and at the same time, offer strength and durability to applied structures.

Flexbrick’s ceramic tissue can be applicable in facades, pavements, pergolas, structures and roofing applications and situations. One of this system’s advantages rests in the proven ability to mitigate solar radiation’s impact, which promotes significant improvements in thermal insulation.

Flexbrick’s ceramic textile system combines steel and ceramics that offer significant environmental benefits.

3. Studio RAP

This Rotterdam-based, architectural design company utilizes ceramics for expressive architecture and design. One of their projects which involved a boutique store in Amsterdam saw the studio design a wave-like facade made from ceramic files using 3D and algorithmic design.

This process was done to amplify the store’s identity of it being a high-end fashion store and each ceramic tile was designed and individually 3D printed to echo the details and texture of the textile.

Each of Studio RAP’s ceramic projects keeps pushing the boundaries of what can be done with ceramics.

4. Arfai Ceramics

Arfai Ceramics works in the decorative ceramics industry with a Business-to-Business framework.

The company has developed its patented unique material, ECOFAI, that consists of mud, dust and excess sub-products and glazes; which comes after years of extensive research. This clay material reuses water and the whole process takes place in-house, which reduces the company’s carbon footprint.

Application of Ceramics Beyond Construction and Design

Ceramics In Space, Defense, Medicine and Technology

Technical ceramics are commonly used in space applications for a lot of benefits including heat shields and thermal protection systems. These types of ceramics offer chemical stability in space programs, high-temperature resistance and many other benefits.

Because ceramics are more challenging to craft than plastics or metals due to their hard-to-machine or mould quality into different forms, some initiatives have been taken like adding a resin-printed-like plastic that’s converted into ceramic through a high-temperature firing process.

3M, a century-old conglomerate, started by producing products that improve the daily lives of people around the world. They started by experimenting with corundum, ideal for making sandpaper and grinding wheels. Later, they discovered another material entirely: anorthosite. Since this discovery, they’ve moved on to discovering and experimenting with different materials that have been applied to other products. 

One of their experimental materials is advanced ceramics, which have been applied in several inventions, including smart grids, smart cars, 3M's patented Evaporated Boats, and Ceramic fibres and textiles (which meet some industry demands, including industrial furnaces, fuel cells, and rocket boosters).

The advanced ceramics produced by 3M are uniquely built and suited to resist heat, corrosion, and wear; they are better than metals and plastics and can withstand extreme conditions.

CeramTech, a developer and manufacturer of products and components, holds a leading position (worldwide) in manufacturing advanced ceramics and uses them in a wide range of applications.

CeramTech’s technical ceramics are divided into four major groups: silicate ceramics, oxide ceramics, non-oxide ceramics, and piezoceramics.

CeramTech’s ceramics solutions are also applied in several industries including:

• Medical Technology and their 27 million BIOLOX components worldwide (hip components, metal-free ceramics knee, sleeved revision femoral head, BIOLOX CONTOURA, Ceramic Core for Cervical Disc)

• Medical Equipment - CeramTech’s complex medical solutions and applications are revolutionizing the medical equipment industry including their ceramic dipping formers, ultrasonic sensors and transducers, piezoceramic components and advanced ceramic components.

• Automotive & E-mobility - Ceramtech is a recognized and experienced supplier of technical ceramics for the automotive industry and this makes them TISAX and IATF 16949 certified. CeramTech’s ceramic applications in this industry include plain bearings and sealing discs for thermal management and to ensure long service life, metallized substrates and heat sinks for e-trains. also provides sensors and piezo technology with applications like LiDAR, ultrasonic and pressure sensors to provide real-time data that supports safety critical systems such as airbags and driver assistance systems.

CoorsTek is a leading global manufacturer of technical ceramics. They have over 400 proprietary technical ceramic material formulations.

CoorsTek produces and develops technical ceramics for numerous industries including Consumer & Household, Energy, Food & Agriculture, Aerospace & Defense, Automotive & Transportation, and Semiconductor and these ceramics come in different applications and use cases.

In the Agriculture space for instance, CoorsTek’s technical ceramics come in the forms of can tooling components, hex tile mats for grain handling applications, NSF-certified components for food processing and beverage handling equipment and these products are designed for superior performance, excellent corrosion resistance and wear resistance.

Advanced Ceramics Manufacturing company’s business model is built on ceramic technology and polymer-based composites. In simpler terms, they create innovative products that are applied in the Defense, Industrial Systems and Aerospace sectors.

ACM’s materials are processed and made from high-grade ceramic powders that are custom-formulated to meet application and customer requirements.

Ceramics & 3D: Merging Ancient Material with Digital Precision

The resurgence of ceramics in contemporary design owes much to digital fabrication—especially 3D printing. Once shaped solely by hand or mould, clay is now being manipulated by algorithmic design, robotic arms, and additive layering techniques.

Studios like Studio RAP in Rotterdam are leading this movement. Their ceramic façade for a boutique store in Amsterdam is a testament to how technology can elevate tradition. Each tile was 3D-printed with a textile-inspired texture, blurring the line between craft and code.

This new frontier allows designers to push the structural and aesthetic possibilities of ceramics—creating complex geometries, intricate surfaces, and scalable production without sacrificing the tactile charm that makes ceramic so beloved.

Ceramics have always carried meaning—from ritual vessels to everyday mugs. Today, they also carry innovation, community, and vision. They connect our past with our future.

As you sip from your favorite mug or admire a ceramic tile wall, remember: that behind every piece is earth, fire, and a very human story.

What ceramic object do you cherish—and why? Let me know.

Mycelium, the hidden fungal network beneath our feet, quietly transforms design and sustainability. Once confined to its natural role in ecosystems, it is a sought-after material for architects, designers, and climate innovators. With its unparalleled versatility and environmental benefits, mycelium is leading the way toward a future where materials work in harmony with nature.

Mycelium is the vegetative part of a fungus. It is usually found in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems as it aids their role in plant material decomposition. Mycelium produces numerous branches that grow outward in a radical fashion and create a colony, this organism/fungi carries nutrients - phosphorus, nitrogen and carbon between plant roots.

A lot of research has shown that plants with certain fungal properties are proven to be more resilient when it comes to issues like infestation and diseases, and mycelium has been known to transmit messages between plants through the language of a chemical signal.

Mycelium Applications Across Industries

Fashion

Fashion Week continues to unveil innovative materials, and mycelium is no exception. Designers like Alexander McQueen have explored its potential, demonstrating how this natural material can be both sustainable and aesthetically striking. Beyond its artistic appeal, brands like Lululemon have shown how mycelium can be a practical alternative for everyday products, including yoga pants and bags

Apart from mycelium being found in some parts of a mushroom, mycelium can be found in soils or surfaces like wood in long, thread-like shoots like hyphae. A look at Alexandra McQueen’s collection explored the usability of the material.

There has been the rise of unconventional (plant-based) materials in the fashionsphere like wild nettle plants, underground roots of mushrooms, plant fibres, jade stone, seaweed, and unused crab shells.

Mycelium has been used in the fashion industry since the 1960s, with several brands incorporating it into their designs to explore sustainable alternatives.

In 2022, Lululemon introduced yoga pants and bags made from mycelium, showcasing its potential as a biodegradable and sustainable material for everyday clothing. This aligns with consumer demand for eco-friendly fashion while reducing dependency on synthetic fabrics.

While many safe and ethical alternatives have emerged in fashion, mycelium stands out as one of the most viable materials for a sustainable future. So far, there have been a lot of use cases of mycelium in the fashion industry but what about other industries like design, architecture and climate tech? This deep dive will take a look at how this material can be replicated creatively in these three distinctive sectors.

Mycelium isn’t a buzzword or a new phrase at the tip of people’s lips. Mycelium has been in use for decades and has been the talk of a lot of industry leaders and decision-makers. With the rise of climate change, alternatives to other available materials and sustainability, knowing more about a widely talked about material is timely.

A reason, I consider, mycelium to be a go-to material in the design, architecture and climate-tech industries is that the material or product or specimen is biodegradable (a huge characteristic several experts look out for when sourcing material), non-toxic and acts as a good insulating/coating material and also proves fire performance and acoustic properties/characteristics.

Research done on mycelium highlighted that materials derived from mycelium have key advantages over traditional (synthetic) materials and can be used to replace key materials like foam, furnishings, and plastics/timber for applications ie cabinetry, and panelling. These materials also have low cost in their density and energy consumption in addition to their biodegradability, low environmental impact and carbon footprint.

Design and Packaging Materials

French candle brand Amen is a first-in-kind sustainable high-end design candle brand that uses packaging made from agricultural waste and mycelium. In its campaign, the video highlighted the use of mycelium as the brand’s first CO2 alternative to conventional packaging. This initiative was taken to tackle the hidden plastic waste associated with shipping fragile products like candles and ceramics. Amen requires double packaging/wrapping, such as bubble wrap or other plastics, to protect the products even if the outer packaging is plastic-free.

The initiative was furthermore kickstarted when half of their first (candle) was delivered to a partner in the US broker during the journey. The only available options to change their packaging were from plastic foam. Amen, a sustainable luxury brand, had to live up to the packaging they shipped. They teamed up with Grown, to build a cylindrical box made out of mycelium to hold individual candles - by mixing the mycelium with agricultural waste (like hemp) and placing it in a mould and takes about seven days to complete. This was also concluded that the mycelium material is a go-to and suitable material.

Another research project done by researchers at the University of Stuttgart; Clara Blum, Paula Castel, Lemmy Hu and Gonzalo Munoz Guerrero explored the potential of mycelium in (sustainable) design.

With a focus on mycelium mushrooms and their application in translucent building envelopes. The research highlighted that the material had compressive qualities which were valuable, they can come in handy in times of material/resource scarcity. In the research, a lamp was used as a case study to check and balance vital barriers and light transmission and to also achieve distinctive visual effects and aesthetic value through the material’s growth patterns.

Amid growing material scarcity, the demand for sustainable alternatives in architecture is rising. Mycelium is answering this call with its fire resistance, thermal insulation, and biodegradability. Installations like PLP Labs’ modular mycelium blocks and Bento’s In Vivo at the Venice Biennale showcase how mycelium can redefine modern architecture while promoting a symbiotic relationship with nature.

With the first use case of mycelium in architecture, there has been the rise of designers, artists, creatives and architects embracing and harnessing sustainable alternatives in their works or projects to reduce carbon footprints in the construction and building industry.

Our first showcase is PLP Lab’s mycelium installation at Clerkenwell Design Week 2023. The 100% bio-based symbiocene installation is a combination of fun and engineered 3D printer timber shells. The installation was made from mycelium modular blocks which demonstrate a possible future where civilization and nature can entertain a positive symbiotic relationship. The installation was made up of 84 blocks and was arranged to form abstract seating, spatial formations, partitions and a table. During the event, attendees and visitors interacted with this structure and got to experience firsthand, the symbiotic relationship between fungi and humans.

PLP Labs’ year-long experiment demonstrated mycelium’s potential to create modular architectural elements. Their Clerkenwell Design Week installation featured 84 modular mycelium blocks, proving its versatility for applications like seating, partitions, and tables. In PLP Lab’s study or research, they discovered that mycelium is a versatile material suitable for various applications in architecture.

In 2023, Bento showcased In Vivo at the Venice Architecture Biennale which explored an architect’s new relationship with resources. The In Vivo installation experimented with natural and living materials including mycelium (the vegetative part of fungi) and raw earth on a larger scale.

The installation also showcased and educated attendees about the design and construction sector and alternatives that can be derived from living organisms alongside their imagery. The installation was educative as curators made use of natural, living materials and also experimented with the installation of panels made out of mycelium in a spectacular wooden structure (12m long x 6m wide x 6m high) and also rested on a floor of raw earth from excavated soil.

This initiative or activity allowed visitors to experience the sensory, poetic, acoustic, and tactile characteristics of selected materials.

At the 2021 Dutch Design Week, a house built from 100 different plant-based materials was among the exhibition. Showcased by design studio, Biobased Creations, the showhome was made out of biomaterials including mycelium, cork, mud, Mexican corn leaves, seaweed, straw, wood and vegetable fibres including earth and sewage. The only non-biomaterials featured in the showhome were the glass windows and metal screw fixings. The CEO, Lucas De Man, made use of biomaterials in the exhibition to sensitize the public on what was possible and also show how eco-materials can be used in the construction of ordinary homes.

The showhome was called The Exploded View Beyond Building but was called The Embassy of Circular and Biobased Building by Dutch Design Week. The project was constructed using the circular building method which was built in a factory and has a layout that’s based on a standard grid that could be a template for house design varieties. Burned wood was used in this project and served as a coating replacement and maintenance. The mycelium was used on one of the biohomes’ walls which was light, water resistant, fire retardant and had a sound acoustic property. Mycelium was also used to make an insulation wall. In the biohome's fungi section, all the building partitions including the 3D printed table, the composite floor and a lam were made out of mycelium.

Gob, a biotechnology product design company, is reinventing wearable wellness products that are engineered with biology. Gob is launching the world’s first earplug with a conscience, one that is grown from lab-grown mycelium.

Gob saw an opportunity to use mycelium for earplugs after discovering that the world manufactures about 40 billion earplugs which are made out of petroleum-based materials - mostly PVC which causes cancer, is endocrine disrupting and is environmentally harmful. The company stepped into the market by making use of a less harmful product that regenerates the health of the planet with every use.

The compostable earplug is made out of Forager grown by Aerial Mycelium. Gob’s mycelium earplugs offer unmatched comfort and performance which moulds naturally to the ear for optimal lift and protection. Gob is in partnership with Forager by Evocative to source cutting-edge farm-grown mycelium materials for their products.

MycoWorks is pioneered by Phil Ross and Sophia Wang, and the company functions at the intersection of art and biotechnology. He coined the term mycotecture sometime in 2008 to describe structures grown with mushroom mycelium, a renewable organic resource that is an alternative to plastics and animal hides. Philip’s mycelium work can be traced to the culinary and art industries as he has been cultivating mycelium as a material for art and design since the 1990s. Phil’s interest in mycelium was visible as he introduced the immune-supporting benefits of reishi mushrooms, which he began for medicinal use. With the reishi material, Phil discovered a rich diversity in form, colour and texture - otherwise known as reishi’s dynamic response to the everyday forces of light, air gravity and temperature.

Phil began using reishi as a material for creating sculptures, bringing culinary precision and having a naturalist’s keen eye to perfect his biotechiques for growing living works of art. In the early stage/development of MycoWorks, they used mycelium to create panels and moulded forms for interior and structural design projects which in turn piqued the interest of furniture designers, manufacturers and architects from a wide range of industries.

Some of the mycelium projects were presented at the Venice Biennale of Architecture as part of the Time Space Existence. In 2016, MycoWorks developed flexible mycelium materials designed to perform like leather with the help of funding raised from biotech accelerator, IndieBio. The seed round helped them create their most exciting creation yet - an advanced mycelium material that would bring about the genesis of Reishi Fine Mycelium.

MycoWorks Fine Mycelium, the brand’s patented revolutionary technology, is completely new in the history of materials. Reishi is also the first natural material to match the performance of the finest animal leathers. MycoWorks is the pioneer behind Mycelium Muse, an initiative/ exhibition that showcases seven talented women artists and designers who have perfected or crafted Reishi to their taste, sensibility, and styles. The Mycelium Muse exhibition is part of Design Miami.

These designers- Sophie Dries, Anna Le Corno, Pauline Guerrier, Josephine Fossey, Sarah Valente, Marian Mailender and Fanny Perrier - showcase a new world that displays the beautiful never-ending possibilities of the Reishi mycelium material. Each (designer’s) work is distinct and offers POVs they share among themselves to bring about their unique approach to design.

The Reishi patent has had a collaboration with Ligne Roset, a high-end French furniture brand that has signature pieces. Ligne Roset committed to purchase a significant portion of Reishi’s production capacity, a luxury biomaterial from MycoWork’s large-scale production facility. This is the first time MycoWorks will offer a large volume of Reishi to a luxury clientele and also the introduction of Reishi into the product design sector. Following Ligne Roset’s announcement of its intention to introduce new and lower-impact materials such as Reishi, into the manufacturing of its products, Ligne is also committed to the preservation of the environment in the French industrial sector.

Furniture designers are embracing mycelium for its sustainability and versatility. ComuLabs founded by Ilia Litviak and Ilya Gindin, bridges the gap between sustainability and affordability in furniture materials.

ComuLabs has developed a pressed mycelium material that rivals MDF, offering a formaldehyde-free and eco-friendly alternative for cabinetry and panelling. Ilya Litvak’s interest in mycelium was sparked when he grew edible mushrooms onto his restaurant chain - waste, in a bid to deliver consistent, high-quality tests in gastronomic mushrooms, and also tried options of playing with materials and came up with the idea of pressing the mycelium and come up with a high-density pressed board.

Gindin has no experience in the construction industry or field, but after different encounters with plywood made out of mycelium, the mycelium ecosystem, and the problem associated with products and materials in the furniture space contributing to deforestation, toxins and formaldehyde; he made a go for it. ComuLabs waste-based material is an affordable sustainable alternative to MDF (Medium Density Fibre-Board).

Mycelium isn’t just a material—it’s a movement toward a sustainable future. As industries adopt this transformative resource, we stand on the brink of a new era where design and nature work together. In future pieces, we’ll explore even more groundbreaking uses of mycelium across design, architecture, and climate innovation. Stay tuned as we uncover how fungi may hold the key to a greener tomorrow.

In the next pieces, we’ll explore more groundbreaking examples of how mycelium is being utilized in design, architecture, and climate/clean technology. Stay tuned to discover how this remarkable material is reshaping industries and advancing sustainability.

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Timber, also known as lumber, is referred to as unprocessed wood in most parts of the world like Canada and the United States. Timber, lumber, and wood all mean the same thing as they undergo the same felling process into uniform and useful sizes including boards, beams, and planks.

Timber refers specifically to unprocessed woods, and fiber such as cut logs or standing trees that have yet to be cut. Wood is an organic, hygroscopic, and anisotropic material. Its thermal, acoustic, aesthetic, working, mechanical, and electric properties make it suitable for construction.

Wood/Timber/Lumber has been a common and historical choice as a building material, it’s highly machinable and can be fabricated into all kinds of shapes, cuts, and sizes to fit (practically) any construction need.

One of the biggest advantages of using wood as a building material is that it’s a natural resource which makes it readily available and feasible.

Role & Importance of Timber

Time and time again – coupled with the telling times of climate change, wood/timber/lumber has proven aesthetic, and unparalleled environmental and construction benefits.

There’s been a rise of people spending the majority of their time indoors, there’s been an appreciation and interest in the choice of materials being inhabited and lots of home/resident occupants have been paying close attention to the material used.

Lots of studies and research have been done but this particular study revealed that the presence of wood surfaces in a room can lower Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) activation.

Early Use of Timber in Design & Construction

The early use of timber can be referred back to the Stone Age, as it was one of the earliest building materials endorsed by man. Ancient cultures like the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians also inculcated timber for various purposes, including larger buildings and homes.

The Medieval times also saw the prevalent use of timber because of its adaptability and use in intricate designs. Structures and edifices like Japanese pagodas, Chinese temples, and European Cathedrals are huge testimonies of the craftsmanship and engineering knowledge of the time. Timber has shaped the way humans have lived.

How Timber Usage Has Experienced Evolution

Timber, is one of the longest (standing) building materials in existence, in present times, countries like the UK have become one of the largest timber consumers and panel products in the world.

Timber, today is arguably one of the most important resources on the planet and it’s being used today in furniture building, homes, and new ways of living. The timber revolution isn’t just tied to one or two regions, it has become a global movement as massive mass timber structures are being built all over the world.

There has been a rise of seasoned designers who are aware of the need to reduce carbon emissions and they make it their mission to have a strong commitment to build more sustainably with wood. Away from traditional wood and timber, there has also been the rise of engineered wood that is created by bonding wood fibers, particles, or veneers to form a durable and strong material while minimizing waste and utilizing sustainable sources.

The evolution of scarce and precious resources like timber brings both opportunities and challenges. In the opportunity/demand stance, there is the rise of the need for wood/timber which is fueled by the expanding bioenergy and sustainability sector, a shift towards eco-friendly and green construction materials, and other demands from developing countries.

In the case of challenges/supply stance, regions like North America, Europe, and Australia increasingly advocate for native trees and forest preservation, which supplies a significant portion of the world’s fiber.

The Global Wood or Timber market is said to rise between 2024 and 2032. As of 2022, the Global Wood or Timber market size was valued at $6702.43 million and it’s expected to expand at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 3.34% during the forecast period, reaching $8164.88 million by 2028.

There has also been a rise of key industry players and companies in the Timber/Wood market. Some examples include:

1. Setra Group

2. International Paper Co.

3. Sodra

4. Pfeifer Group

5. Vida Timber

6. Stora Enso Oyj

7. West Fraser Timber Co Ltd

8. Weyerhaeuser Company

9. Universal Forest Products

10. Masco

11. Klabin

12. Louisiana-Pacific Corporation

13. Holmen AB

14. Canfor Corporation

15. Tolko Industries

16. Asala Wood

It’s been established that timber is a recognized building material that’s not only used for aesthetics but also for its eco-friendly properties.

Timber can be categorized as not all kinds of timber that can be used for the different needs out there in demand. Timber can be in the following categories:

1. Hardwood

Found in tropical and temperate regions, hardwood trees grow more complex and slowly than their counterparts and can take up to 150 years before it’s ready to be harvested. This makes the timber obtained from them heavy, hard-bearing, and dense.

Examples:

a. Meranti (also known as Philippine Mahogany)

b. European Oak

c. Ash

d. Black Walnut

e. Hickory

f. Teak

g. Wenge

h. Poplar

i. Sapele

j. Maple

k. Balsa

2. Softwood

They grow faster than hardwoods, usually taking around 40 years before being ready to harvest, which makes them less dense than hardwoods.

Examples:

a. Larch

b. Spruce

c. European Redwood

d. Yew

e. Pine

f. Douglas Fir

g. Cedar

h. Juniper

An obvious way to tell the difference between hardwood and softwood is physical. Hardwood has a higher density than softwood.

NOTABLE PROJECTS MADE OUT OF TIMBER

1. Haus Koris by Zeller&Moye

   

   

   

2. Cascade House by JOHN ELLWAY.ARCHITECTURE

3. ForestBank by Yuma Kano

Innovative Use of Timber In Modern Design

Timber, one of humanity’s oldest building materials has been involved in an ever-evolving landscape. Timber’s timeless appeal and versatility have graced a wide range of architectural marvels throughout time and history.

Timber’s popularity has emerged alongside modern construction and design and has become more concerned with sustainability and eco-friendliness. In today’s age, timber has stood the test of time spanning architecture, construction, and technology.

An example can be seen with Thermally Modified Timber which is heated at temperatures greater than 190°C to create changes in wood at a cellular level. Also known as heat-treated wood, every treatment it undergoes alters the wood’s physical and chemical properties to make it (more) suitable for various applications especially environment, areas, and regions that can lead to decay and/or degradation.

Thermally Modified Wood production is largely done on a commercial scale in Estonia because moisture has been reduced from the wood thermally, when in use; it does not mold or rot and it experiences no longitudinal shrinking and also ensures high dimensional stability that results in a minimum biological life span of 25 years.

Thermally Modified Wood comes in handy in providing or displaying indoor and outdoor building/design/construction solutions that can take shapes or forms in cladding and decking.

Another innovative way timber has been used in modern design is Glued Laminated Timber, aka, Glulam, which is formed or created by gluing or bonding individual wood segments with industrial or moisture-resistant adhesives.

Glulam is not just used and applied in all building types; it comes in handy with beams, panels, stairs, bridges, pavilions, and canopies. One of the greatest advantages that comes with glulam is its ability to produce arches, curves, and arched shapes that are prevalent in beams and pillars.

Challenges Encountered When Working With Timber

While timber offers numerous advantages due to its versatility, natural beauty, and sustainability; the material also presents several challenges. They include:

1. Harvesting Sector

Challenges like managing forests in ways that meet present-day needs without compromising the ability of future generations, habitat destruction, deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and water cycle disruption.

2. Durability and Decay

Wood/timber is highly susceptible to biological treatments like fungi, pests, and insects that can degrade wood.

3. Fire Resistance

Timber/wood is highly flammable and this poses huge risks in fire-prone areas, regions, and environments - especially when fire safety is a critical concern.

4. Loss of structural strength because of fungi attack

5. Chemical & Environmental Impacts

Chemicals like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) affect indoor air quality, human health, and environmental hazards.

Certain treatments and procedures can enhance timber’s properties which will improve its performance, versatility, and durability. Some of these treatments are:

1. Chemical Preservatives - which are classified into 2: oil- and water-based. Both classes of preservatives are helpful to protect wood from decay, fungal growth, and pests. Water-based preservatives like Copper Chrome Arsenate (COA), Copper Azole (CA), and oil-based preservatives like Pentachlorophenol and Creosote are popular examples of preservatives. These treatments are commonly used in landscaping, protection against decay, used for wood in outdoor environments like landscaping and decking.

2. Acetylation - which involves an organic esterification reaction with acetic acid and alters the wood/timber’s chemical structure by reacting it with acetic anhydride, which reduces the wood/timber’s ability to absorb water.

3. Sealants & Coatings - when these liquids are applied on wood, they protect from mechanical tear, UV light, and moisture. They also enhance the appearance of wood and at the same time, provide a protective barrier against environmental elements.

Other treatments involve fungal/enzymatic treatments, resin impregnation, charring, fire retardants, and thermal modifications.

The Future of Timber

The future of timber looks exciting as lots of the possibilities are already in motion and progress. With these advancements, we know that anything (with timber) is possible. Some possibilities of timber are not limited to structural wall/roof/timber systems, termite, and fungal resistance, amongst a list of others.

1. Advanced Engineered Wood Products

Products like Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL), Glue Laminated Timber (GLT), and Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) will be in continued development to meet specific needs and will be implemented in large-scale constructions - long-span structures and highrise buildings because of their flexibility and strength in desire.

2. 3D Printing With Wood

Ranging from furniture to structural elements, future developments in 3D printing technology will see to the printing of complex components and structures.

3. Enhanced Thermal Modification Processes

This expands the applications of Thermally Modified Timber in construction for further refinements to improve the outcomes and efficiency of treated wood which will make it more durable and stable without chemicals.

4. Carbon-Capturing Wood

With the world tightening its oars around climate change, lots of wood products that can capture and store carbon dioxide more effectively will become a priority.

5. Self_Healing Wood

Lots of research has gone into self-healing materials - and also extended into timber, where wood could potentially be treated, created, or engineered to repair cracks, dents, and damages autonomously.

6. Energy Generating Wood

There’s a possibility of emerging technologies that will enable the development of wood surfaces to generate energy. They could be used for building exteriors.

7. Transparent Wood

Research about making wood/timber transparent whilst retaining its strength and insulating properties is ongoing. This could come as an alternative to glass which will offer better insulation and potentially integrated energy harvesting capabilities - such as embedded photovoltaics.

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Imagine a material that has cloaked the exteriors of structures from the ancient pyramids to modern-day homes, evolving yet enduring through centuries. Stucco isn’t just a façade, it’s a testament to human ingenuity in shaping our built environment.

This article looks at stucco, a survivor and chameleon in the world of building materials. Echoing through the ages, stucco embodies the alchemy of art & architecture, a material that in its simplicity, captures the complexities of human ingenuity and the enduring quest for beauty.

Stucco Types

a. Santa Babara Stucco

It can also be referred to as Santa Babara finish or Santa Babara smooth, which is a type of stucco finish that originated from the Santa Babara region of California. You can tell its type by its smooth and luxurious appearance, which sets it apart from traditional rough-textured stucco finishes.   

The Santa Babara stucco is a mixture of Portland cement, sand, water, and lime; and when blended creates a smooth, workable paste/material that can be applied in thin layers to achieve the desired finish.

When making use of the Santa Babara stucco, requires the utmost skill and craftsmanship. This stucco comes in a variety of colors, ranging from vibrant hues, beige tones, and traditional white.

NOTE: The Santa Babara stucco can be difficult to apply and repair in cases of cracks. It’s mostly seen in Mediterranean-style residences. When using the Santa Babara stucco, it’s required to use two coats to finish a project.

b. Traditional, lime-based stucco

This stucco has been used for centuries in various cultures around the world. It’s primarily made from lime, sand, water, and in some cases, the addition of other ingredients like pozzolans or fibers for added strength and flexibility.

A typical traditional lime stucco is made from a mixture of slaked lime (calcium hydroxide), sand, and water, where the lime acts as a binder and bonds the sand particles together to create a hard, durable finish.

The traditional lime stucco has a distinctive appearance that’s often described as soft and warm. Traditional lime stucco is still used in the restoration and preservation of projects, even though it’s less used in modern construction.

c. Synthetic Stucco

Also known as Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS), this is a popular cladding system that’s used/applied in residential and commercial construction. EIFS is highly versatile and can be used to create a wide range of textures and finishes, including smooth, textured, and decorative patterns. EIFS is resistant to cracking, fading, and water damage which makes it a long-lasting option for exterior walls.

d. Acrylic Stucco

Also referred to as acrylic finish or synthetic stucco, this is a modern alternative to traditional cement-based stucco. The acrylic stucco is a mixture of a blend of acrylic resins, polymers, additives, and aggregates.

This mixture/combination gives it a huge advantage over traditional stucco, including flexibility, resistance to cracking, and durability.

The acrylic stucco is available in a wide range of colors and textures, which makes it a versatile option for exterior finishes.

 e. Cat-face Stucco

This stucco is characterized by a series of irregular, jogged patterns across the surface and resembles the marks left by a cat’s tongue when grooming.

Cat face describes a specific texture or finish for traditional cement stucco. Cat face stucco is popular for its ability to add character and charm to a building’s exterior. A unique feature is that it can be used on its own or in combination with other finishes to create a custom look that complements the architectural style of the building.

Common Use Case Of Stucco In Construction

1. Historical Restoration

Stucco is often used in restoring and repairing projects, to patch damaged/deteriorated areas or sections of existing stucco.

2. Exterior Accents

Architectural features like trim, eaves, and window seals can be accentuated with stucco. This is done by molding and shaping to create custom details that enhance the overall design of the building.

3. Ceilings

Stucco is applied to ceilings to create a textured finish.

4. Interior Walls

When stucco is applied to interior walls, a textured and durable surface is achieved which results in added visual interest to a room.

5. Exterior Walls

When added to exterior walls or surfaces; a durable, weather-resistant surface that withstands and protects the underlying structure is achieved.

STUCCO INNOVATIONS & FUTURE TRENDS

As of 2023, the stucco market was valued at $13 billion and is on the rise to witness more than 4.9% CAGR from 2024 – 2032. In 2022, Asia Pacific accounted for the largest stucco market share in 2022.

Due to its esthetic appeal, Stucco is a commonly used material in the building and construction industry in the United States. Stucco has become one of the building materials that has graced the facades of homes and projects for centuries. This is not surprising, thanks to the materials’ durability, appeal, and versatility.

Some top trends being noticed in Stucco designs include:

i. Stucco being combined with other materials.

ii. Stucco leaning towards muted earth tones.

iii. Stucco has smooth finishes and a more minimalistic look.

iv. Stucco embracing bold accent colors.

v. Stucco being innovative with sculptural elements.

NOTABLE ADVANCES IN STUCCO (MATERIALS)

1. New stucco mixtures incorporate recycled materials which plays a part in reducing waste and the need for virgin resources.

2. Polymers being introduced to traditional stucco mixtures which result in improved flexibility, durability, and resistance to cracks.

3. Some stucco products include photocatalytic coatings that can break down pollutants and specks of dirt when exposed to sunlight and help the building stay cleaner.

4. There has been a rise in smart stucco systems that involve embedding sensors within the stucco layers to monitor building health.

UPSIDES & DOWNSIDES OF STUCCO

It has been established that stucco, a versatile building material, offers a blend of aesthetic appeal and functional benefits which makes it a popular choice for exteriors across various climates and architectural styles.

Just like any (construction/building) material, stucco comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages; being fully aware of this will help.

UPSIDES

i. Color Retention

One of stucco’s characteristics is its ability to be highly absorbent and its porous nature, the stucco material can retain its color for a longer period.

ii. Aesthetic Versatility

Stucco can be applied in a range of textures and colors which allows for a high degree of customization to match various architectural styles, from traditional to modern.

iii. Sound Insulation

Stucco’s dense composition can help reduce sound transmission which offers a quieter environment.

iv. Low Maintenance

When stucco is properly applied in suitable climates, it requires minimal maintenance.

DOWNSIDES

i. Porosity

Stucco is porous and when applied in climates and areas that experience heavy rain and snowfall, stucco will retain water and let it soak/permeate into the interior walls if not properly installed.

ii. Limited Suitability

Even though stucco is versatile, its suitability varies by climate.

iii. Cracks

Due to improper application, settling, or seismic activity, stucco (surfaces) develop cracks over time.

STUCCO BUILDING PROJECTS AROUND THE WORLD

1. The Eleven Walls by Studio Nor

2. Six Courtyard Houses by Ibarra Rosano Design

   

   

   3. Theodora by Home Studios

   

   

   

   4. K5 Tokyo Hotel by Claesson Koivisto Rune

5. ITL Restaurant Adelaide by Walter Brooke & Genesin Studio

APPLICATION & MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS OF STUCCO

Stucco is becoming a popular choice for exterior finishes due to its durability and aesthetic versatility. However, the key to ensuring its longevity and maintaining its appearance lies in proper application and ongoing maintenance.

STUCCO APPLICATION

a. Surface Preparation

The application surface must be clean, stable, and free of any substance that could impair the adhesion of the stucco.

b. Mixing

Stucco is typically composed of Portland cement, and sand. lime and water. The materials must be mixed in the correct proportions to achieve the desired consistency & performance characteristics.

c. Application

Stucco is applied in 3 coats;

i. Scratch coat

ii. Brown coat

iii. Finish coat

d. Curing

Stucco needs to be kept moist and allowed to cure slowly to minimize cracking. This usually involves misting the stucco with water for several days.

STUCCO MAINTENANCE

i. Regular Inspection

ii. Cleaning

iii. Repairing Cracks

iv. Repainting

v. Addressing Moisture Issues

vi. Preventative Measures