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Nature-Driven Design Week

Join us for a week of special programming exploring the future of design, where nature doesn't just inspire—it co-creates.

Join us on Sunday, April 28 for a panel discussion on climate-resilient design and bio-fabrication. Following the panel, engage with current sustainable design research with interactive demonstrations in our Learning Labs. Throughout the week, join us in our Maker Hub and Learning Labs for design-focused drop-in activities. All free with museum admission.

Take a look below for details.

This programming is being offered in conjunction with Boston Design Week.



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Nature-Driven Design Demos

Join Christina Agapakis, James Vincent Brice, Joris Komen, and Rosa Weinberg in an exploration of nature-based design innovations. After the talk, from 2:30-4:00pm, participate in interactive demonstrations led by the panelists, exploring their work on coastal adaptations and biologically-inspired materials.

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Rosa Weinberg, Moderator

Designer, design educator, and consultant with the MIT Morningside Academy for Design
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James Vincent Brice 

Master of Architecture and Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering degree candidate, Morningside Academy for Design 2023-2024 Fellow
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Christina Agapakis

Biologist, Artist, Writer and Creative Director at Ginko Bioworks
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Joris Komen

PhD Candidate in the Department of Architecture's Design and Computation Group
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Benedetto Marelli

Associate Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Drop-in Sessions

Visit the Maker Hub and Learning Labs for daily drop-in activities throughout the week. Check out the activities and schedule below.

In the Maker Hub:

Bug Hotels: Discover the world of pollinators and learn to design and construct for non-human organisms. Learn about the needs and preferences of various pollinators as you build specialized habitats to support these crucial creatures.

Bioplastic: Explore biomaking sustainable plastics. Experiment with different formulas to create your own colorful string from seaweed-derived polymers. This activity is supported by the Biogen Foundation.

In the Learning Lab:

Biomaterial Testing: Can we turn to nature for the materials of the future? Come test the strength and flexibility of biologically derived materials while you learn about their potential in everything from sustainable packaging to medical devices.

Schedule:

Saturday, April 27
12:30-4:30pm
Bug Hotels

Sunday, April 28
12:30-4:30pm
Bug Hotels

Monday, April 29
2:30-4:30pm
Bioplastic

Tuesday, April 30
2:30-4:30pm
Bioplastic

Wednesday, May 1
2:30-4:30pm
Bioplastic

Thursday, May 2
2:30-4:30pm
Bioplastic

1-3:00pm
Biomaterial Testing

Friday, May 3
2:30-4:30
Bioplastic

1-3:00pm
Biomaterial Testing