Growing Materials, Naturally
Working at the intersection of biotechnology, craft and design, malai biomaterials design is rethinking how materials are grown rather than manufactured. Founded in Kerala, India, and Slovakia, the studio develops innovative biomaterials from bacterial cellulose fermented on waste water from mature coconuts, creating alternatives that are as culturally rooted as they are environmentally responsible. Their practice combines material science with traditional knowledge, exploring how local craft and decentralised production can contribute to more regenerative design systems.
At Material Matters London, malai will present a series of material explorations spanning textiles, objects and surfaces. Highlights include the handwoven Armadillo Khadi Tapestry, Palm Weave Objects, and Malai Koodai – a collection of interior objects and new lamps developed with designer Franco Miotto using the traditional Tamil Nadu 'koodai' knotting technique. The exhibition also marks the debut of Malai Pure, a new bacterial cellulose biomaterial for fashion and interiors, alongside a hands-on workshop inviting visitors to learn knotting, palm weaving and leathercraft techniques using malai materials.