What's Around Design?

Inhaltsverzeichnis

1. Frontmatter

2. Biodesign Inspiration

   1. Frontmatter

   2. Microbial Biomineralisation in Living Artefacts for Regenerative Ecologies: An Overview and Design Pathways

      Verindi Vekemans, Stefano Parisi, Joana Martins, Jun Wu, Marie-Eve Aubin-Tam, Elvin Karana

      Abstract

      This paper explores the potential of microbial biomineralisation—a biological phenomenon where microorganisms drive mineral formation, generating structures with exceptional mechanical properties—for sustainable design futures. In particular, we discuss how leveraging microbial biomineralisation in designing living artefacts can support regenerative ecologies. Although a few pioneering biodesigners have begun to explore the potentials of microbial biomineralisation for design, a vast design space remains under-explored in the realm of living artefacts. In response, we first characterise a design space by analysing 22 microbial biomineralisation cases from art, design, architecture, materials science, and engineering. We examine the specifics of the organisms and substrates used, the fabrication or growing techniques developed, and the unique design outcomes. Following this, we further analyse these cases through a five-pillar framework of living artefacts for regenerative ecologies, speculating on potential pathways where these cases can be further developed as living artefacts to achieve the specific goals related to these pillars. Our results signal a promising era for designing living artefacts that promote cleaner production practices, foster biodiversity, and cultivate care and sensibilities towards other-than-human entities in our daily lives, by integrating the unique properties of microbial biomineralisation into everyday interactions with living artefacts.

   3. The Cumatê Resin of the Amazonian Cuias – Documentation of an Ancestral Biomaterial from a Biodesign Perspective

      Andrea Bandoni, Raul Cunca

      Abstract

      The cumatê resin is produced and utilized by artisans from Santarém, in the Brazilian Amazon region, for the production of cuias. These are decorative and utilitarian domestic objects, with indigenous origins, utilized for various purposes, including serving food and drinks. When coated with cumatê, cuias acquire a glossy black finish, resulting in increased resistance and durability. This study aims to analyze and test the ancestral technique associated with cumatê resin through contemporary Biodesign approaches. The objectives are to document the ancient process from a design perspective, and to evaluate its potential as a biomaterial for new applications. Although the ancestral technique of applying cumatê resin is relatively widespread, the extraction process of the resin is scarcely mentioned in literature. Furthermore, prior to this research, the application of cumatê to materials other than cuias was undocumented. The methodology adopted includes a critical review of existing literature on cumatê techniques, direct observation of traditional artisans, interviews with these practitioners, and practical experimentation within the production context itself. By integrating these methods, the analysis underscores the importance of documenting this technique from a (Bio)design perspective. The study highlights the relevance of ancestral indigenous knowledge to the fields of Biomaterials and Design, emphasizing the role of the latter in valuing and preserving the communities that hold this traditional knowledge. Ultimately, the cumatê resin is recognized as a lacquer – a material valued by designers, and as an Ancestral Biomaterial—a category warranting deeper examination.

   4. WHICH LABEL GOES ON THE DOOR? Navigating the Identity of Materials Designer

      Valentina Rognoli, Sofia Soledad Duarte Poblete

      Abstract

      This paper explores the intersection of materials design and biodesign. It suggests that these practices should not be viewed as separate disciplines and that each can benefit from understanding the other. It begins by defining materials design and then emphasises the urgent need for a paradigm shift in design, moving from anthropocentric approaches to those centred on regenerative ecologies. The discussion highlights the growing convergence between material design and biodesign, promoting a broader, more inclusive perspective. It demonstrates how biodesigners can benefit from incorporating materials design principles and practices and vice versa. Both disciplines could play a critical role in restoring and regenerating ecosystems by bridging biology, design, and technology. By focusing on practices such as biofabrication and DIY-Materials, these designers can create materials that meet human needs while enhancing ecosystem resilience, shifting from a human-centred to a more holistic, multispecies perspective. Drawing on over 25 years of experience in materials design, the paper emphasises the importance of combining knowledge from these fields and adopting transdisciplinary approaches that prioritise materials and materialities for transition. Finally, the paper argues that a clear, integrative perspective is essential for advancing regenerative ecologies and design practices that contribute to planetary health.

   5. Biodesigning with Living Organisms in Fablabs: Towards a Research Agenda

      Ena Naito

      Abstract

      Recently, there has been a surging interest in designing with living organisms such as bacteria, fungi, algae and plants towards sustainable agendas. Beyond creating replacements for conventional materials, scholars have increasingly paid attention to how engaging with biodesign processes, including the ongoing growing and nurturing of living cultures, could support designers to grow capabilities to facilitate new imaginaries of the way we co-design with organisms and wider ecological systems. An understudied - yet crucial - implication of this development, is that these engagements must be fostered and disseminated by infrastructures in the first place. Building upon literature and an ongoing case, this paper foregrounds Fablabs as a fertile infrastructure that could expand opportunities to design with living organisms. By mapping out six preliminary levers that could be probed to mobilise Fablab’s infrastructure, this study calls for expanding opportunities for biodesigning, and to open up a discussion for future research agendas.

   6. Mapping Biodesign at the University of Aveiro

      Nina Costa, Johannes Goessling, João Mano, Fátima Pombo

      Abstract

      Biodesign, an emerging field integrating living organisms into design solutions, offers promising approaches to global challenges. However, the interactions of designer and scientists, especially in academic settings, remain understudied. This research explores the intersection of design practices and the sciences within a higher education institution, focusing on interactions in interdisciplinary projects. Through qualitative case study research methodology, six in-depth interviews with three scientists and three designers engaged in biodesign-related projects in a Higher Education Institution were conducted. Data analysis identified 18 projects from 9 major application areas (e.g. food systems, mobility, building architecture). Key findings reveal that design adopts multiple roles in biodesign projects, perceptions of nature’s role differ between designers and scientists, and while both groups recognize mutual benefits in collaboration, they face challenges related to differing work cultures and conceptual frameworks. These findings contribute to the literature on design-science collaborations and provide insights for institutions promoting interdisciplinary work, highlighting the need for structured approaches to biodesign education and research in academic settings.

   7. Beyond Temporality: Ephemeral Pavilions and Temporary Installations as Icons of Innovation

      Elton Lima, Tarciana Andrade, Luís Mateus, Amilton Arruda

      Abstract

      The ephemeral architectural pavilions outline representative icons of contemporary architecture, highlighting their relevant role as experimental laboratories for architectural practice. Due to their temporary nature and flexibility of use, these pavilions allow for experimentation with innovative materials, advanced construction techniques, design methods and theoretical concepts. The research is a qualitative study based on analyses of case studies. The review covers the analysis of ephemeral pavilions, identifying the most relevant practices and innovations in the field. The case analyses include 2 examples of temporary pavilions, and 1 installation developed by ICD/ITKE at the University of Stuttgart, focusing on design methods and construction techniques. The research also addresses the distinction between ephemeral pavilions, which create usable spaces for several activities, and temporary installations, which tend to be more contemplative and sculptural. The results indicate that the flexibility and creative freedom provided by ephemeral pavilions allow for the development of functional and dynamic spaces, while temporary installations may focus on creating aesthetic experiences as well as smaller-scale experiments to validate functional concepts (such as products of minimum viable project). Furthermore, these structures demonstrate how the combination of functionality and aesthetics can challenge conventional design and construction practices. The discussion reveals that ephemeral pavilions, combined with advanced design technologies, offer new perspectives and approaches, significantly influencing the evolution of architecture. It can therefore be seen that these pavilions not only work as platforms for experimentation, but also as engines of innovation, contributing to the development of architectural solutions.

   8. Biofabrication Strategies for the Recycling of Tuscan White Marble By-products into Innovative Bio Building Materials

      Marco Marseglia, Francesco Cantini, Tommaso Celli, Edoardo Brunelli, Lorenzo Reali, Giacomo Sampietro, Natascia Biondi, Giuseppe Lotti

      Abstract

      This paper presents an interdisciplinary design-driven research that explores biofabrication strategies for recycling by-products of Carrara white marble into innovative and sustainable building materials. The aim was to transform waste from marble processing into biofabricated materials through the use of photosynthetic organisms. The research combines sustainable design skills and agricultural microbiology to develop material samples according to the logic of Material Driven Design and Biodesign in a circular economy context. Cyanobacteria and microalgae cultures were used to induce the biomineralization of calcium carbonate, producing material samples that can find application in the field of green building and design. This study also proposes a model of collaboration between design and science and develops tools useful for understanding the design problem by designers. Tools that could be extended to other industrial supply chains, contributing to the necessary ecological transition as well as developing the interdisciplinary relationships essential to address the complex issues of the real context. The project results have a positive impact on the problematic context at multiple scales, both from the point of view of the consequences on the territory in terms of circular economy (Macro), and from the point of view of the products developed (Meso), and from the point of view of the biofabrication of the material by microorganisms (Micro).

   9. Bio-inspired Photobioreactor Design: Harnessing Nature for Optimal Algae Cultivation

      Derya Irkdas Dogu, Onur Mengi, Deniz Deniz, Gulizar Caliskan Bilgin, Mine Gungormusler, Zehranur Tekin, Mohammed Al Hammadi

      Abstract

      This paper presents the design and development of a biomimicry-inspired photobioreactor (PBR) aimed at optimizing algae cultivation for sustainable urban applications. By closely mimicking natural systems, the proposed PBR design incorporates an omni-directional apparatus that replicates natural fluid dynamics to enhance air bubble distribution and algae growth efficiency. This bio-inspired approach significantly increases biomass yield, particularly by facilitating growth and reducing the need for traditional tank drainage and filtration. Comparative growth experiments demonstrate the apparatus’s ability to improve algae proliferation, simplifying harvesting processes and reducing operational costs. This approach offers a scalable, cost-effective solution for incorporating algae cultivation into urban architecture. The paper concludes with insights into the performance of the biomimetic design, its potential for large-scale applications, and the opportunities and risks for further development.

3. Circular Territories Inspiration

   1. Frontmatter

   2. What’s Around Poliamid Hosiery Waste?

      Zsófia Antalóczy, Anna Keszeg, Zsófia Papp

      Abstract

      This study investigates the innovative reuse of polyamide hosiery waste within the textile industry, focusing on sustainable design practices. The project addresses the challenge of transforming a Hungarian hosiery factory’s production waste into valuable material. The research centers on creating a multifunctional camping bottle entirely from hosiery waste, demonstrating the potential of circular design. The process involves analyzing the factory’s production and extruding its waste into granulate suitable for injection molding. This method proved efficient with experiments and testing, allowing the creation of durable, high-quality products. The design of the camping bottle emphasized functionality, integrating a lamp, food bowl, cup, and container within a compact form, ensuring all components could be re-melted and reused. The project underscores the evolving role of designers, who must adopt a circular identity, balancing technical, engineering, environmental, and creative aspects. By considering the entire product lifecycle, from waste to production to degradation, the study highlights the importance of innovative design and offers a new future solution for polymer-based textile waste. This approach exemplifies how designers can lead the shift towards a circular economy, transforming waste into valuable resources and fostering environmental responsibility within the textile industry.

   3. Circular Design and Regenerative Design in the Transition to a Sustainable Food System

      Verónica Duarte, Miguel Aboim, Claudia Viegas, Maria João Félix

      Abstract

      The development of food systems involves a wide range of issues that affect health, well-being and the environment and imply a deep reflection on the challenges that are related to the emission of greenhouse gases, environmental degradation, working conditions, insecurity food and nutrition and social vulnerability. Designers engage directly and indirectly with other stakeholders and influence the social, economic and environmental dimensions of the food system. This article is part of an ongoing doctoral research and seeks to explore and examine the role of designers in the food system, taking into account the processes of circular design and regenerative design. Based on the qualitative methodology, supported by the literature review, different themes were crossed, which stimulated reflection according to a holistic view, resulting in the proposal of three evolutionary stages, which relate the different theoretical themes and which designers must consider in the transition to a sustainable food system. From this study we conclude that designers have the capacity to position themselves and actively contribute to the development of sustainable food systems, which promote equity for vulnerable groups, through collaborative, inter and transdisciplinary approaches. The expected results focus on the relevance of carrying out additional research, integrating different disciplines to deepen the relationship between design and the food system.

   4. Developing Circular-Based Territories by Creating Meaningful Social Urban Change Through the Customer Journey Framework - Citizens Become Users

      Mona Von Eitzen Toni

      Abstract

      This paper explores the integration of the customer journey framework into urban planning to enhance social urbanism. By applying marketing tools to concepts like the 15-minute city and circular-based territories, the study proposes a citizen-centric approach to create more inclusive and sustainable urban environments. The research suggests that treating urban residents as ‘customers’ allows planners to meet the needs of diverse populations better, ultimately contributing to more resilient and human-centered cities.

4. Speculative Biofutures Inspiration

   1. Frontmatter

   2. Bioremediation with Heavy-Metal-Binding Hydrogels and Microbial Heritage Sites

      Caroline Chou, Hao-Wei Shih, Karolina Sulich, Jin Montclare, Elizabeth Hénaff

      Abstract

      Inspired by the research from the Hénaff Lab at and Montclare Lab at NYU Tandon School of Engineering, this paper examines how heavy metal binding hydrogels can lead to a more sustainable and collaborative future. This speculative biofuture explores the bioremediation breakthroughs designed from microbes of the Gowanus Canal’s chemically rich sediment. Set in a post-2037 world, the biofuture scenario features a super virus that alters human sensitivity to microbial communities, making bioremediation and restoration of microbial diversity vital. The narrative is brought to life through protagonist narratives, artifacts, and social fictions that highlight the socio-political implications of green gentrification in relation to bioremediation efforts. The speculative Gowanus Canal Microbial Heritage Site serves as a model for addressing contamination and fosters community participation through initiatives that provide hydrogels for decontaminating water sources at home. This speculative exercise envisions a collaborative future where microbial technologies and human communities work together to achieve environmental sustainability and social equity. Storytelling through social fiction narratives and artifacts effectively highlights the importance of designing at individual, community, and ecosystem levels, with varying buy-ins required for different scales. As researchers, we must consider environmental justice and public engagement and shift from reactive to preventative approaches to address pollution and environmental damage.

   3. Conceptualising the Technosphere of a Circular Economy Through a Living Systems Metaphor

      Emma H. E. Fromberg, Ken Webstera, Conny A. Bakkerb, David Peck

      Abstract

      This paper explores the move to a circular economy through the metaphor of a living system: a forest. The technosphere of a circular economy is an entirely human-made and managed realm. This research aims to explore how a common understanding of how a forest works can be used to conceptualise the products, components and materials that circulate in the technosphere as “fruit”. This exploration entails four aspects of the metaphor: (1) the recipient needs to know what it is “eating”, (2) the fruit needs to be “non-toxic” for the recipient, (3) the fruit needs to be nutritious and, (4) the wider system needs to be able to “metabolise the nutrients”. This metaphor allows for a more interconnected and holistic understanding of different economic and societal actors, their relationships and overall productivity.

      The nature of many materials in the technosphere prompts consideration of issues of standardisation, complexity, disclosure, and liability together with intellectual property rights. However, special attention and/or treatment is needed for materials that can be considered “substances of concern”, which ideally would be designed out or carefully managed to avoid exposure. Furthermore, the paper explores the “nutritional value” of technosphere materials, emphasising the need for increased product longevity, through strategies such as design for disassembly and the right to repair. Finally, to allow the wider, open system to benefit from diverse inputs, it requires further decentralisation of supply chains, enabling accessibility of inputs to more informal or smaller-scale economic entities and fostering local creativity. To support this change, concepts related to nutrient stock maintenance and total product liability are addressed.

5. Nature-Based Solutions Inspiration

   1. Frontmatter

   2. Reframing Design Education: Fostering Interdisciplinary Learning Through Nature-Inspired and Sustainability Principles

      Madhavi Goyal, Varun Goyal

      Abstract

      Global challenges such as environmental pollution, resource depletion, climate change, and loss of biodiversity, compounded by issues prevalent in third-world countries like overcrowded urban spaces and public health disparities, demand innovative, sustainable solutions. In response, this paper explores the integration of nature-inspired design and sustainability principles into interdisciplinary design education. The primary objectives are to develop an education framework that embeds these principles, fosters collaborative learning across disciplines, and equips students with the skills necessary to address both global and local sustainability challenges.

      As an initial approach subject of “Materials Exploration” is reframed using a workshop model based on Kolb’s experiential learning theory, emphasizing systems thinking and ecological impact. This model demonstrates how content can be transformed to foster a deeper understanding of nature-inspired principles and sustainable practices. The outcomes of this approach will guide the broader restructuring of design curricula, categorizing subjects according to their potential for sustainability integration. This paper thereby argues that interdisciplinary design education, with the core of biomimicry and sustainability, can produce a generation of designers capable of addressing contemporary global challenges through innovative, ethical, and sustainable solutions.

   3. Nebulous Narratives

      Antonia Valencia, Caroline Sinders

      Abstract

      Environmental data has been dominated by empirical and quantifiable metrics, often overshadowing the profound narratives and experiences that define our personal relationship with Nature. This research aims to question and redefine this approach, placing value on cultural knowledge as an information source and addressing ecological complexity. This project seeks to answer: How can alternative data-gathering methods redefine individual and collective narratives of Nature?

      “Nebulous Narratives” progresses through four interconnected stages: Alternative Data Gathering, Redefinition, Encoding Imaginaries, and Outcome. Central to its methodology is the exploration of unconventional data points through a research-based art approach. Three participatory workshops were conducted, with the aim to gather new knowledge about environmental data. These instances used creative interventions and collective art to question traditional data collection methods and redefine our relationship with Nature. The results of these workshops showcase the intrinsic entanglement individuals have in relation to Nature, their memories, cultural identity, and lived experience. This research seeks to contribute with an unconventional dataset comprising data stories and creative interventions, that serves as a departure from conventional empirical approaches and aim is to reimagine the role of data in shaping our interactions with the natural world.

   4. Sustainable and Collaborative Restoration with Natural Materials of Vernacular Architecture

      Hande Yıldız Çekindir, Jose Manuel Garcia Torres, Matthieu Joseph Pedergnana

      Abstract

      “Caravanserai Summer School”, initiated by the independent initiative “Depo Pergamon” in Ferizler village of Bergama (İzmir, Türkiye), with the technical and economical support of “Meydan Architecture + Design” in 2022, aims to carry out architectural restoration through collaborative and ecological methods. At a time when villages are still being abandoned due to migration to cities or transformed by the introduction of standardized and ready-to-use materials for more convenient architecture, this project aims to re-discover and adapt local and traditional construction techniques to improve the living conditions while preserving and promoting the original architectural features of the villages. This adaptive reuse project proposes a new model of ecological restoration using natural and local materials such as stones, timber, earth, straw, manure, water and sun but also finds solutions to reduce waste by converting old building elements to host different functions. Thanks to the participation of students in the workshop, several alternative techniques are being taught, experimented, and exhibited, and therefore an ancient know-how is being revitalized through the extreme attention given by the participants to the existing constructions. This paper examines this summer school experience and the natural building materials and techniques used in this out of the box vernacular restoration process.

   5. Walking as an Interaction Design Research Tool for Exploring Urban More-Than-Human Relationships

      Stephanie Ochona

      Abstract

      Nature strips are a kind of informal green space in cities that are contested and constantly transformed by the more-than-human communities that occupy them. This paper proposes walking as a novel interaction design research method to uncover embodied knowledge of relationships between multiple species living in nature strips. Understanding the interactions between people, plants and places can enable perspectives often overlooked in informal green spaces. Through walking interviews with residents of a street in Bulleke-bek, Australia, it became evident that nonhuman species are an integral part of community well-being and can be active participants in conversations. The results of the walking interviews provided important insights into co-designing future urban greening projects that allow for active participation of both people and plant communities. Facilitating more-than-human agency by walking as method can foster ways inclusive approaches to supporting biodiversity in urban habitats through interaction design.

   6. Alis Texart: Tradition and Sustainability Importance in Education on the Fashion Field

      Liliana Pina, Paulo Martins, Gisele Nepomuceno, Anderson de Souza

      Abstract

      The main purpose of this paper is to spread through the academic community the importance and value of artisanal and sustainable techniques. The contents presented were part of a Blended Intensive Program (BIP). Textile materials (e.g., fabric, yarns and staples) were the main working basis. Natural dyeing, surface design on fabrics, felting and weaving were the main techniques explored. This paper it is merely descriptive, as it is mainly concerned with facts and arguments. So, the main aim is to provide information that could be useful for other future textile or fashion contexts. Due to the low number of answers, having into account the number of participants, was only possible to carry out a qualitative analysis of the data. Only a general description of the opinions was carried out. However, students were able to successfully explore different artisanal and sustainable techniques and to create their own products, and, or, experimentations, each with their own personal style. It was concluded that the program could benefit from some improvements regarding the inclusion of more practical exercises and the revision of the number of daily hours. Regarding the originality of this paper, a BIP on a fashion design context as not yet been explored academically. Sharing artisanal and regional techniques and sustainable processes improves social relations and can increase the creativity of the students’ future projects. The ancestral knowledge is not lost, and new generations can understand its value and their potential application on fashion products and on their future designer careers.

6. Strategic Design for Green Transition Inspiration

   1. Frontmatter

   2. Re-thinking Service Design: Reconceptualizing Complex Adaptive Systems for Sustainable Future.

      Anıl Dinç Demirbilek, Onur Mengi

      Abstract

      In an era of constant technological development and advancements, the shift towards becoming interconnected through globalization proposes an unpredictable and complex ecosystem for organizations to navigate in a rapid manner. Placed within this dynamic environment, the role of design has also become challenged to adapt and propose alternate ways within systemic structures, specially dedicated for innovative service design deliveries for sustainable and resilient futures. By integrating complexity theory and systems thinking into service design, the Green Deal can foster innovative approaches that are better equipped to address the challenges of today, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and equitable future. Thus, this paper explores how complexity theory can be applied to service design to better understand and navigate challenges posed by green transition. The paper explores the theory of complexity theory and systems thinking as foundational aspects for representing a conceptual approach for responding to the complex nature of environmental and societal systems. The methodology reviews the complexity theory and its relationship with the contemporary service ecosystem, with regard to the systems theory to further estimate the key factors of service design complex adaptive ecosystems. The findings argue a holistic view that adopts a systems-thinking approach to understand the interconnectedness of environmental, economic, and social factors. The paper proposes key factors of service design to non-linear system trajectories emerging as a new research spectrum for strategic design approaches for sustainability.

   3. Strategic Design for Green Transition: Expanding Designers’ Responsibilities and Impact.

      Paulo Roberto Nicoletti Dziobczenski

      Abstract

      This study examines the transition of strategic design towards sustainability, inspired by the ‘Strategic Design for Green Transition’ track at the What’s Around Design? 2024 conference. By reviewing definitions of strategic design in academic literature, the study illustrates a shift from traditional and vertical to broader and horizontally integrated approaches that emphasize environmental and social responsibility. The analysis highlights the pivotal role of strategic designers in fostering sustainable innovation and systemic transformations. The findings underscore the necessity for future research in the practical application of strategic design to address global sustainability challenges and facilitate a green transition.

   4. Exploring More-Than-Human Agency in Design: Bio-Inclusion in Prototyping Urban Reefs

      Pierre Oskam, Alexandra Bal, Louise Raclet

      Abstract

      The more-than-human paradigm signifies a shift from a human centric to a broader ecological perspective. This relational view of the world recognizes that certain processes exist beyond human consciousness or intervention. This article presents Urban Reef’s research-creation which puts in practice ways to design human systems that embrace natural systems principles. To this end, UR’s approach to more-than-human design combines speculative design, critical making and ecological system thinking. Four values found in Urban Reef’s practice are: to ideate through ecological thinking and imaginaries, to experiment with nature-based tectonics, to non-intrusively promote living systems regeneration, and to silently listen to more-than-human teachers. The framework presented in this article rethinks notions of care by positioning design as a natural process and material as living with agency.

   5. The Natural Resource Extraction Clock: Design Strategies for the Near Future

      Stella Femke Rigo

      Abstract

      Extractive materials like metals, stones, and minerals will continue to meet the needs of various sectors, but their deposits are depleting (Ashby, 2009). This article introduces the concept of an “expiration date” for extractive resources, specifically examining the example of copper, to encourage designers to propose alternative scenarios and solutions. Designers play a crucial role in promoting circular and sustainable practices, influencing how we manage and design within our ecosystems, as highlighted by Papanek (1972) and Reed and Lister (2020). The idea of setting “expiration dates” for resources is inspired by the 2022 single-use plastic regulation (European Commission, 2019), which aims to reduce environmental pollution and promote sustainable materials. Identifying these time limits, based on scientific research, seeks to establish concrete alternatives in response to emerging challenges. While it is technically challenging to pinpoint an exact date for resource depletion, the concept of an “expiration date” raises awareness and encourages more responsible resource management. Focusing on materials like copper underscores the need for advanced recycling technologies and the adoption of alternative materials, contributing to a sustainable ecological transition. In conclusion, setting expiration dates for non-renewable extractive resources could drive innovation, leading to the adoption of emerging materials such as bio-based, biomimetic, and “living” materials. This approach not only fosters sustainable practices but also has the potential to inspire creative exhibitions, such as the “Ore Streams” collection by Formafantasma.

   6. Future Mill Road: Designing a More-than Human Neighbourhood

      Idrees Rasouli

      Abstract

      This paper presents the findings from a twelve-week multi-stakeholder design research project investigating “how can a more-than-human perspective transform the Mill Road neighborhood into a safe, biodiverse, and low-carbon environment?” undertaken between May and July 2024 by students and staff from MA Interior Design Innovation, MA Art, Health and Wellbeing, and MA Human-Centered Design courses at the Cambridge School of Art, ARU. The Mill Road neighborhood is an important area in Cambridge, UK that requires rethinking of the relationships between human and other beings and could benefit from place-based innovative and strategic approaches to build a more caring, sustainable, and humanity-centred world. While current examples of transitioning to green goals have focused on reducing harm, this paper advances current understanding by taking a ‘systematic four-step approach’ in which strategic interventions along the Mill Road explore possibilities for human systems and the built environment to co-exist through effective behavior change with the natural systems. This perspective draws from Mayer and Knox’s (2006) concept of “slow cities” as an alternative urban development strategy; Hinchliffe and Whatmore’s (2006) concept of “living cities” emphasizing the messy nature of ecological co-fabrication; Haraway’s (2008) idea of “becoming with” which highlights the interconnectedness and encounters with other species; Puig de la Bellacasa’s (2017) notion of “living with” focusing on a more engaged forms of agency; Hyvärinen’s (2019) exploration of “multispecies livelihoods” as a form of situated knowledge; and Author (2023) “thinking cities” which views cities as dynamic organisms shaped by shared actions and reactions.

7. Backmatter