Exhibitor Spotlight: AHEC champions No.1 Common at Material Matters Copenhagen

Crafted in collaboration with Benchmark Furniture, No.1 Common challenges our perception of quality in natural materials. Rather than prioritising the most ‘pristine’ wood cuts, the project advocates for a more sustainable, inclusive approach: using what nature provides. The exhibition champions material efficiency by spotlighting the rich colour variation, grain and natural characteristics often filtered out in traditional grading systems.

The exhibition, designed by Kia Utzon-Frank, will feature new works by Andu Masebo, Anna Maria Øfstedal Eng and Daniel Schofield. Each was tasked with exploring the aesthetic and technical potential of No.1C hardwoods, producing distinctive works that underscore the power of thoughtful material selection in shaping design futures. Each response showcases the creative and practical potential of American hardwoods when we widen the definition of value. 

To dig deeper into AHEC’s ethos, don’t miss our latest podcast episode with David Venables, European director of AHEC. In conversation with Grant Gibson, he discusses the urgency of sustainable forestry, the future of timber, and why No.1 Common is more relevant than ever. Listen to the episode here.

Through No.1 Common, AHEC encourages designers, manufacturers, and consumers alike to rethink timber’s role in a more sustainable future and to consider how thoughtful material selection can shape the future of our forests. 

Making Things in Common - The workshop

Join designers Andu Masebo and Kia Utzon-Frank on Thursday, June 19th at 11am at the No. 1 Common exhibition in the Gammel Dok building for a hands-on workshop. Using hardwood offcuts from the exhibition, participants will be teamed up to collaboratively design and create unique lighting pieces, which will become part of the exhibition. This event celebrates sustainable design and the creative possibilities of making things in common.

No.1 Common by AHEC
18-20 June 2025
Material Matters Copenhagen

The exhibition is free to attend. Click here for visiting details. 

Photo: Dan Medhurst courtesty of AHEC