Mumbai Lab
Seashells

The Lab in Mumbai explores discarded seashells and other forms of bio waste from the sea as an overlooked marine resource with potential for material innovation.

For example, Shells are composed primarily of calcium carbonate, a natural material that can be transformed into powders, composites and structural surfaces.

In this lab, designers and researchers investigate how shell and other bio waste from coastal and food industries can be reimagined as a design material. Through experimentation and prototyping, participants explore processes such as crushing, binding and casting to create new material applications.

The lab reflects on circular material systems and examines how marine by-products can be integrated into sustainable design practices.