Ornamo Materials Day at Aalto University

Join us at Aalto University on 28 May 2026 for a full day exploring the latest developments in material research and design. Materials play a key role in shaping more responsible ways of living, from everyday choices to industrial applications. The day is filled with expert talks, hands-on workshops, and an exhibition of material innovations. The morning focuses on biodesign, biomaterials, mycelium-based materials, composites, and digital textiles. Workshops offer opportunities to explore materials through practice, while the exhibition showcases demonstrations and new material solutions.

The event is in English and hosted by Ornamo and Aalto University. Materials Day is aimed at designers, creative professionals, and anyone interested in sustainable material futures. Participants may attend the morning, afternoon, or the full day.

Schedule

Morning: Research insights and practical examples  

8.30 | Arrival, registration and coffee 

9.00 | Opening remarks 

Keynotes 

9.10 | Barbara Pollini: Biodesign’s cross-disciplinary approach in bio-driven material innovation 

9.40 | Priska Falin: Geopolymers as a novel and potentially greener material alternative for creative practitioners 

10.10 | Manuel Arias Barrantes: Mycelium-Based Materials  

10.30 | Short break (10 min) 

Flash talks  

10.40 | Ritesh Sharma: Biobased binder formulation for textile printing with natural dyes 

10.55 | Sofia Guridi Sotomayor: Digital Textiles – futuristic experimentation. Interdisciplinary material development in the context of interactive textiles for Human-Computer Interaction.

11.10 | Harvey Shaw: Mycelium-Based Composites 

11.25 | Anubhuti Bhatnagar: Social risks and how to measure them in the clothing sector 

11.40 | Annukka Erheikki: Circular biofoams for protective packaging (Woamy Oy) 

11.55 | Matti Kantoniemi: Experimental environments

12.15–13.30 | Lunch 

Afternoon: Workshops and exhibition  

13-16.00 I During the afternoon, the audience has an opportunity to go deeper into the world of materials through workshops and material demos in the exhibition.

Please see the program of the event and register here.