MaterialDistrict Utrecht 2025 under the sign of Biophilic Design

From March 12 to 14, 2025 Werkspoorkathedraal in Utrecht will once again be the stage for MaterialDistrict Utrecht, the fair where architects, interior designers and innovators come together around the latest developments in innovative and sustainable materials. This year, the fair is entirely dedicated to biophilic design - a design approach that focuses on the connection between people and nature. With a diverse group of 150 exhibitors, an extensive materials exhibition and a full-day lecture program, MaterialDistrict Utrecht offers an inspiring platform for sustainable innovations and knowledge exchange.

Resource shortages: from prediction to reality

More than fifty years ago, the Club of Rome was already predicting a future in which raw materials would become scarce, as described in their report The Limits to Growth (1972). What seemed like a distant prospect then is now a reality, emphasizes curator Leonne Cuppen: "The earth is becoming depleted, not only of fossil fuels, but also of scarce metals such as lithium and cobalt, which are essential for technology and sustainable energy." The urgency to develop circular and regenerative materials is greater than ever. MaterialDistrict Utrecht provides a stage where this challenge takes center stage and presents innovations that push the boundaries of material use.

A rich mix of exhibitors

MaterialDistrict Utrecht is distinguished by a dynamic mix of exhibitors, ranging from recently graduated designers to established industry players. This diversity is a core value of the fair and makes it a unique meeting place for designers and manufacturers of different generations.

Curator Leonne Cuppen selected sixteen Young Talents this year, who inspire with their experimental designs and materials. For example, Rameshwari Jonnalagadda presents her project TerraMound, an innovative cooling system based on terracotta, and Morris Bouwman invites visitors to think about climate change with Watching the [Grass] Grow. 

MaterialDistrict also supports start-ups focused on circular and sustainable innovations through the MaterialDistrict Innovation Fund. Thanks to this fund, innovative start-ups such as Eggxpert, which converts eggshell waste into sustainable building materials, and the Sponge Building Project, which develops ceramic structures for green facades and water collection, can participate in the fair. RietGoed, a company that uses local reeds for biobased applications, is also presenting their circular product line. Through this support, MaterialDistrict Utrecht provides a stage for young companies that are contributing to a more sustainable future in an impactful way.

Established companies at the forefront of sustainable innovations are also widely represented. For example, ArcelorMittal Construction is presenting their latest steel products that contribute to the reduction of CO₂ emissions, and Ege Carpets is showcasing their innovative approach to sustainable carpets. With producers such as Rubio Monocoat, which develops wood finishes based on natural oils, and Artimo Textiles, specialist in sustainable interior fabrics, MaterialDistrict shows how major brands are working on solutions to today's ecological challenges.

Biophilic Design as a theme

The theme of biophilic design runs like a thread through the fair. In cooperation with Biophilic Design Academy (BDA), the Werkspoor Cathedral is decorated with natural elements and offers visitors a sensory experience of biophilic design. The highlight of this thematic interpretation is the Biophilic Nest, a specially decorated six-by-six-meter space where the power of natural materials and forms can be directly experienced. Biophilic design shows how nature in the built environment can not only enrich aesthetics, but also the well-being of users
promote.

Lecture program with sixty speakers

MaterialDistrict Utrecht also offers a comprehensive lecture program that takes place over three days in two theaters and features a total of sixty speakers. The program highlights a wide range of topics, from the latest material innovations and circular design strategies to specific applications of biobased and biophilic design. These sessions offer visitors in-depth knowledge and inspiration to apply directly to their own practice.

Material exhibition: experiencing innovations tangibly

At the heart of MaterialDistrict Utrecht is the materials exhibition, showcasing over 250 innovative samples. The exhibition allows visitors to explore sustainable materials, from textiles made from seaweed to bio-based acoustic solutions. This tangible experience helps architects and designers gain new ideas and explore the potential of these materials in their own work
discover. 

Visits 

The 18th edition of MaterialDistrict Utrecht will take place from March 12-14, 2025 at Werkspoorkathedraal in Utrecht. With 5,000 expected visitors, 150 exhibitors and 5,800 m2 of exhibition space, the material event for (interior) architects and R&D professionals is entirely dedicated to material innovations for the spatial domain: Architecture, Interior, Garden & Landscape Architecture, Leisure, Exhibition & Stand Construction and Furniture & Interior Design. 

For more information about MaterialDistrict Utrecht and for tickets, visit utrecht.materialdistrict.nl

Opening hours

Wednesday, March 12, 10:00-18:00

Thursday, March 13, 10:00-18:00

Friday, March 14, 10:00-17:00