DESIGNTIDE TOKYO

SO-Colored

Microalgae, found everywhere from water and rocky surfaces to roadsides and even inside homes, first emerged around 2.7 billion years ago. These microscopic organisms have played a vital role in shaping the Earth's environment by producing oxygen and fostering biodiversity. Recent research has revealed their vast potential in applications such as CO2 absorption, alternative energy sources to petroleum, pharmaceuticals, and functional foods.

SO-Colored is a research project that explores the unique "colors" of microalgae. While they are commonly associated with green, algae display a rich diversity of greens and, depending on their species and growth conditions, can also produce vibrant reds, yellows, and blues. These natural hues are vivid and profound, unlike any other in the natural world.

For this project, powdered microalgae are blended with naturally derived resins to develop an original material, which is then used to craft furniture. This innovative approach seeks to uncover new possibilities for natural, sustainable colors.

SO-Colored is a collaborative development project by we+ and Algal Bio Co., Ltd., utilizing algae powder developed by Algal Bio as a key coloring material.

we+

A contemporary design studio founded in 2013 by Toshiya Hayashi and Hokuto Ando, it shapes new perspectives and values through unique methods of creation and expression grounded in research and experimentation. The studio presents self-initiated projects both domestically and internationally that have been born from daily research, applying insights gained from these projects to a range of commissioned work, including R&D, installations, branding, product development, spatial design, and art direction for various companies and organizations. Their works are housed in institutions such as the Vitra Design Museum in Germany.

https://weplus.jp
EXHIBITION / AWARD
  • 2023: FRAME Awards Furniture of the Year / Refoam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • 2023: Wallpaper* Design Award Best Elements of Surprise/ Refoam, London, UK
  • 2023: Dezeen Awards Emerging design studio of the year (Public Vote) / we+, London, UK
  • 2024: Fuorisalone Award Media Partners Special Mention / Straordinaria, Milan, Italy
  • 2019: ELLE DECOR International Design Awards Young Designer of the Year (Nominated by Japan Edition) / we+, Tokyo, Japan