Paper hemp composite

Hyper Wood - Being Radicant

Hyper Wood is an innovative material research project led by Italian designer Teo Rava, based in London. The project emerges from Teo's deep commitment to sustainability and his unique approach to transforming waste into collectibles. Rooted in the principles of ecological responsibility, Hyper Wood aims to rethink the way we create and interact with materials in the design and furniture industries.

At its core, Hyper Wood is a material made entirely from reclaimed fibres and food waste. Teo's process draws inspiration from the natural growth patterns of trees, replicating the intricate structure and grain of timber. Unlike traditional wood, Hyper Wood does not involve the cutting down of trees or the use of virgin materials. Instead, it seeks to recreate the organic qualities of wood through a process of dip moulding, a technique that involves building up layers of material around a scaffolding made from hemp yarn.

What sets Hyper Wood apart from other sustainable materials is its versatility and potential for scalability. The material can be adapted to various waste streams, including textile by-products such as wool, hemp, and cotton. This adaptability not only broadens the scope of the project but also aligns with Teo's goal of creating sustainable solutions that are both practical and beautiful. Hyper Wood's ability to be moulded into organic shapes makes it particularly suitable for use in furniture and interior design, offering a unique aesthetic that blends natural beauty with modern innovation.

Hyper Wood is also designed with the circular economy in mind. The material is entirely compostable and recyclable, ensuring that it leaves no negative impact on the environment. By using reclaimed resources, the initial cost of the material is kept low, making it an economically viable option for sustainable design. Yet, each piece crafted from Hyper Wood is unique and handcrafted, elevating it to the status of functional art.

Teo's work with Hyper Wood has already garnered significant attention in the design world. The project has been featured in various exhibitions, including the Royal Academy's architecture window and international design events in Copenhagen, Milan, and the Netherlands. Through these platforms, Hyper Wood showcases the potential of waste materials to be transformed into something valuable and enduring.

As a project, Hyper Wood reflects Teo Rava's broader mission: to push the boundaries of material innovation while maintaining a strong commitment to ecological responsibility. By challenging conventional perceptions of waste and exploring new ways to create with what we already have.

Making process

The production process for Hyper Wood is as innovative as the material itself. Teo constructs a yarn structure that serves as the skeleton for the piece, which is then repeatedly dipped into a liquid composite made from the reclaimed waste materials. As each layer dries, the object gradually takes shape, mimicking the growth rings and textures found in natural wood. The final product is then sanded to reveal its unique surface, resulting in a material that resembles wood but with a distinct, marble-like quality.

Text submitted by the maker and edited by the Future Materials Bank. For information about reproducing (a part of) this text, please contact the maker.