Belgian watchmaker @ressence_watches has launched the limited-edition TYPE 9 S75 to mark the 75th anniversary of luxury retailer Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons. The watch is notable for its use of real desert sand from the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.), which forms part of its functional dial. This edition combines regional materials with minimalist design, offering insights for designers working with natural and locally sourced materials. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialInspiration #Materials #Sand #ProductDesign #WatchDesign

A high strength, lightweight thermoplastic tape-ribbon that molecularly fuses to itself in a matter of seconds. Forj thermoplastic tape-ribbon by ResinFiber / More at MaterialDistrict.com @forjribbon #Materialoftheday #materials #productdesign #thermoplastic

Researchers from the @universitysa (UniSA) have developed an innovative construction material that could redefine sewage infrastructure through a more sustainable and durable alternative to conventional concrete. This new material not only addresses the chronic issue of corrosion in sewer pipes but also supports circular design by repurposing industrial waste. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialInspiration #Materials #Concrete #Slag #Sludge #SustainableMaterials #ConcreteInnovation #EcoInfrastructure #MaterialResearch #WasteToResource #GreenConstruction #LowCarbonDesign #UrbanResilience

.@zoo_planckendael in Mechelen, Belgium, built what is said to be Europe’s tallest bamboo tower. This structure stands 28 metres tall and became the centrepiece of the zoo’s redesigned entrance. More than just an architectural highlight, the project offers valuable insights for architects, landscape designers, and product developers working with sustainable and biobased materials. Read more at https://materialdistrict.com/article/europes-tallest-bamboo-tower-highlights-sustainable-innovation-at-zoo-planckendael/ #MaterialInspiration #Materials #Bamboo #BambooArchitecture #SustainableDesign #BiobasedMaterials #GreenBuilding #CircularDesign #EcoArchitecture #MaterialInnovation #LandscapeDesign #ArchitecturalInspiration #ZOOPlanckendael

Made from lignocellulosic fibres and PMDI resin, these boards are formaldehyde-free, water-resistant, and manufactured using DefibraTech 1.0 technology, ensuring sustainability and high performance. VestaEco LDF by @vestaeco / More at MaterialDistrict.com #materialoftheday #materials #sheetmaterial #biobasedmaterials #construction #architecture

Dutch printing company @debinkopmeer has developed an innovative notebook called bionotes, made from roadside grass. This eco-friendly material, known as VoorBIJ-paper, is produced entirely in the Netherlands. The notebook is a practical example of circular design and shows how local biomass can support sustainable communication and branding. It’s especially relevant for designers working in packaging, product presentation, and environmentally responsible brand experiences. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com @bionotes.nl #MaterialInspiration #Materials #Paper #SustainableDesign #CircularMaterials #BiobasedInnovation #EcoFriendlyNotebook #GrassPaper #MaterialInnovation #LocalProduction #DesignForSustainability #CircularDesign

.@Nike developed a specialised performance kit for middle-distance runner Faith Kipyegon as she prepares to attempt to break the four-minute mile barrier. The Breaking4 collection showcases advanced material research, aerodynamic optimisation and manufacturing innovation. While designed for one athlete’s historic attempt, the technologies also have potential for wider applications in high-performance textiles, sportswear development, additive manufacturing and material science. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialInspiration #Materials #FashionDesign #MaterialInnovation #SportswearDesign #3DPrinting #PerformanceTextiles #NikeBreaking4 #AdvancedMaterials #Aerodynamics #AdditiveManufacturing #TextileEngineering #WearableTechnology

The material’s porous structure and textured surface make it suitable for wall and ceiling panels, particularly in co-working spaces and offices. Hempstatic by @Hempstatic / More at MaterialDistrict.com #materialoftheday#materials #acoustics #acousticpanels #interiordesign #hemp #biobasedmaterials