Methods - Material Stories

Initially trained as designers, we use our creative skills and methods to generate application ideas, explore sustainable futures, and improve product branding with strategic use of materials.

Putting materiality at the start of the design process is key to our approach. Some might start with market research, target groups or user needs – we start with stuff. This material driven design approach leads to application ideas inspired by the qualities and possibilities of materials and technologies.

Imagining alternative worlds and user scenarios can be helpful to explore the impact of future material and technological developments. By asking "what if" questions we are able to develop future concepts and create conversation pieces to find out what kind of future people want, or do not want.

Selecting materials goes beyond the look and feel. Investigating the origin, production, distribution, consumption and disposal or materials supports deeper understanding and better decision making. The perfect starting point for more sustainable design and solutions for a circular economy.

We love to explore and gather new or unconsidered materials and local crafts from around the world. Combining traditional crafts with new materials, or new technologies with local materials is one of our favorite methods to generate new ideas and concepts for the design of future products.

Materials are more than stuff to make other stuff. Strategic use of materials supports distinctive product language and strong brand DNA. Recognizing or developing a so called "material identity" for the design of products helps product and brand managers in creating competitive advantage.

Finally, it's worth mentioning that we use indirect and creative approach to solving problems. We focus on lateral thinking methods to discover what is not immediately obvious and generate ideas that may not be obtainable with a traditional step-by-step approach. It allows us to see what others do not see.