Researchers at @unioulu in Finland have developed high-performance bio-based epoxy and polyester resins that can replace fossil-based resins in composite materials. The new materials deliver strong mechanical performance, competitive pricing and industrial scalability. Composites play an essential role in construction, renewable energy, transport and marine design. This innovation offers architects, product designers and automotive designers a more sustainable alternative without compromising technical requirements. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialInspiration #Materials #BioBasedMaterials #CircularDesign #SustainableMaterials #CompositeMaterials #BioResins #MaterialInnovation #GreenChemistry #CircularEconomy #SustainableArchitecture #ProductDesign

.@circulus.design, an atelier founded under Yuko Oka Architectural Design in Tokyo, has developed KNIT, a fabric-like exterior wall finish created with a robotic-arm large-scale 3D printer. The team prints the system from a synthetic resin blended with recycled eggshells sourced from food manufacturing waste. By introducing this secondary mineral stream into an architectural product, the studio reduces the share of virgin raw materials. At the same time, the project supports a broader ambition: shifting architecture from demolition and disposal towards reuse and material recovery. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialInspiration #Materials #3DPrinting #CircularArchitecture #RecycledMaterials #EggshellComposite #FacadeDesign #AdditiveManufacturing #SustainableDesign #MaterialInnovation

Material of the day: Mush Art Tiles 🍄✨ Developed by @mushcomposites, these decorative wall tiles are made from mycelium-based composites. The root-like network of fungi grows into lightweight yet structurally coherent forms, with organic textures and subtle variations that make each tile unique. Produced with minimal energy and a low-carbon footprint, the tiles are designed with end-of-life in mind and can safely return to natural cycles. Available in various textures and patterns, Mush Art Tiles support biophilic design principles while offering expressive, modular wall solutions for residential and commercial interiors. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com 👉 Discover this material and many more at MaterialDistrict Utrecht 📍 Werkspoorkathedraal, Utrecht 📅 4–6 March 2026 🎟️ Get your ticket now via link in bio #MaterialoftheDay #Material #MushArtTiles #Mycelium #BiobasedMaterials #BiophilicDesign #SustainableInteriors #MaterialDistrict #MDUtrecht

Researchers at Wageningen University & Research (WUR) have developed a new type of plastic that challenges long-standing materials theory. The material, called compleximer, combines two properties that rarely coexist. Designers can reshape it like glass when heated, yet it resists impact like conventional plastic when cooled. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialInspiration #Materials #Compleximer #RepairablePlastic #MaterialInnovation #SustainableMaterials #CircularDesign #PolymerScience #BiobasedMaterials #DesignMaterials

A poker set made from discarded marine plastic, said to be the world’s first, shows how ocean waste can become a high-quality design product. Developed by Greek micro-recycling studio @recycledin.store, the set offers clear relevance for product designers, interior designers and hospitality brands looking for circular, story-driven accessories. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialInspiration #Materials #RecycledPlastic #MarinePlastic #CircularDesign #SustainableDesign #ProductDesign #HospitalityDesign #OceanWaste #Upcycling #DesignInnovation #CircularEconomy

Material of the day: GreenEdge 🌾🌿 Developed by @annelaendle, GreenEdge is a biobased sheet material made from approximately 40% roadside hay and 60% waste wood from CNC milling processes. The fibres are bound with casein, a natural milk protein adhesive, creating a toxin-free and biodegradable alternative to conventional MDF. By repurposing underutilised roadside biomass and wood waste, GreenEdge addresses furniture industry waste while supporting biodiversity management. The material can be milled, pigmented and enriched with embedded flowers, resulting in a terrazzo-like aesthetic with mechanical performance suitable for furniture and interior applications. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com 👉 Discover this material and many more at MaterialDistrict Utrecht 📍 Werkspoorkathedraal, Utrecht 📅 4–6 March 2026 🎟️ Get your ticket now via link in bio #MaterialoftheDay #Material #GreenEdge #BiobasedMaterials #CircularDesign #SustainableInteriors #MaterialDistrict #MDUtrecht

“I always leave with new ideas — if you didn’t already have one, you’ll definitely find it here”, “The perfect place to explore the latest innovations in biobased and sustainable materials”, “Inspiring to see so many positive minds working toward a greener future — all in one place.” These are reactions from visitors who have previously experienced MaterialDistrict Utrecht. Do you want to discover for yourself why this is the event for architecture, interior design, and material innovation? From 4 to 6 March 2026, MaterialDistrict returns to the Werkspoorkathedraal in Utrecht with NextNow, focusing on material innovations that are ready for application today. This 19th edition highlights biobased, circular and low-impact materials actively shaping architecture, interiors and the public realm. With 125+ exhibitors, a strong international line-up and an in-depth lecture programme, the event connects designers and architects to solutions that move beyond experimentation into real-world practice. A live 3D furniture production by TRIBOO and YIZUMI demonstrates circular manufacturing on site, while the materials exhibition showcases tactile innovation — from bacterially grown textiles to recycled and regenerative alternatives. 💡 Experience it live in Utrecht or watch the livecast online 🎟 Get your ticket today via link in bio NextNow proves that the future of building isn’t ahead of us — it’s happening now. MaterialDistrict Utrecht 2026 📍 @werkspoorkathedraal, Utrecht 📅 4 – 6 March 2026 Opening hours: Wed 4 March | 10:00 – 18:00 Thu 5 March | 10:00 – 18:00 Fri 6 March | 10:00 – 17:00 #MaterialDistrict #MDU2026 #NextNow #MaterialInnovation #CircularDesign

Researchers at the @university.of.maine have developed a fully bio-based food packaging material made from mycelium and cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs). The material offers a plastic-free alternative for food applications. It responds to growing concerns about the health and environmental impact of plastics. Recent studies show that more than a quarter of the 16,000 chemicals used in plastics may pose risks to human health. At the same time, the United Nations estimates that 19–23 million tonnes of plastic enter rivers, lakes and oceans each year. Designers and manufacturers are therefore looking for safer, circular alternatives that maintain performance and convenience. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialInspiration #Materials #Mycelium #FoodPackaging #BiobasedMaterials #PlasticFree #CelluloseNanofibrils #SustainableDesign #CircularMaterials #PackagingInnovation