Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your brand/company?

I’m Bart Schilder, co-founder of Aifunghi, a new sustainable luxury design brand. Our team includes my wife Marije and our partners Michiel Geluk and Mo Aouraghé, who were colleagues of mine back when we worked at Moooi.  

What inspired you to start working with materials/design?

I trained as an industrial designer but quickly realised I was more interested in artisan methods than mass-produced items. At Moooi and with my studio I managed design projects with all sorts of materials and processes.  

Was there a pivotal moment in your career that led you to start working with mycelium?

When I started my studio in 2018 I soon grew uncomfortable with unsustainable materials like plastics. That’s when I first discovered mycelium composites, and the material hasn't left my mind since.  

What are you showcasing at Material Matters Copenhagen?

This year at 3daysofdesign, in collaboration with Material Matters, we’re launching Aifunghi. We’ll be presenting ten new sustainable products designed for the global market.  

What’s the story behind the pieces you’re bringing?

We reimagined furniture with sustainability at its core, asking ourselves, ‘What happens to these products when they’re discarded?’ The result is a high-end, beautiful design collection that is made without harming the planet and leaving no waste behind.

What excites you most about the materials you work with?

The fact that nature is the ultimate supplier. We’re now creating furniture that’s equally durable, stylish, and suitable for contract use—with none of the downsides common in conventional furniture. 

Are there any emerging materials or processes that you’re particularly interested in right now?

We’re excited about innovations with abundantly available natural materials such as algae, which we already use for our comfort foam. We’re also keeping an eye on advancements in mycelium-based materials, like leather replacements. 

What’s one of the biggest challenges in your industry right now, and how are you approaching it?

Innovation has taken a back seat to revenue in the design industry, and many firms are unable (or unwilling) to take risks. At Aifunghi, we're tackling this by starting with a clean slate and focusing on fresh, sustainable practices.

How do you see material intelligence shaping the future of design and architecture?

I think biotech and natural materials will push fossil-based options out of the mainstream. Industries like automotive and packaging are already shifting due to legislation, and design will follow. There’s also potential for a renewed appreciation of skilled labour and traditional processes, which will elevate the value of design.  

A material you love working with?

Mycelium composite! It magically grows hemp fibres together, making it strong and durable. It's simply amazing.

A material that is underrated?

A range of agricultural or natural waste streams such as hemp, algae, wool and so on. We have to re-educate ourselves and future generations on dealing with the sometimes unexpected behaviour of natural & renewable materials, with the ultimate reward of keeping our planet a liveable place.

A designer or innovator who inspires you?

I’m inspired by each and every creator that solves today’s problems authentically and from the heart!

A project you’re most proud of?

Launching Aifunghi has been an incredible achievement and something I’ve been dreaming of for a long time. I’m thrilled to have such a great, experienced team to bring a truly sustainable design brand to the market.

Why should visitors come and see your exhibit at the fair?

Our Aifunghi collection is completely new and unique. With it we show that sustainable design can be luxurious, beautiful and joyful. We encourage each and every design professional to come and experience it in real life.

Where can people find out more about your work?

You can learn more about our process and collection on our website. For updates, follow us on social media!