In 2019, Green Lab launched London’s first publicly accessible organic and bio-based Material Lab and Library — a hands-on research and development space inside our Bermondsey incubator and regenerative hub, dedicated to experimenting with sustainable, circular materials.

Conceived and led by Green Lab’s material specialist Anoushka Cole, the lab was designed as a co-working and prototyping space for startups, students, and researchers working with organic waste and alternative materials. Equipped with everything from blenders and dryers to centrifuges, grow areas, and precision tools, it became a vibrant, messy, and exploratory environment for early-stage innovation.

Alongside the lab, we developed a constantly evolving Material Library – a curated collection of both experimental and production-ready bio-based materials. Sourced from local makers and international researchers, the library showcased materials suitable for industries ranging from fashion and product design to interiors and construction. Created in collaboration with Materiom, the open-source platform for material experimentation, the library served as both archive and inspiration – challenging how designers think about material life cycles, sourcing, and circular potential.

We also partnered with commercial innovators to bring regenerative materials into real-world use. A notable collaboration with Seedlip – the world’s first non-alcoholic distilled spirit (acquired by Diageo in 2019) – explored citrus waste from the brand’s production process. The result was a custom-developed lemon-based biomaterial used to create unique coasters, blending storytelling, sustainability and design..

During its time, the Bio-material Lab:

• Hosted workshops with MA Material Futures students (UAL)
• Supported early-stage material-focused startups and researchers
• Delivered bespoke commercial products and prototypes
• Helped shift industry mindsets through open, hands-on experimentation

The Material Lab and Library embodied what Green Lab stands for: designing with waste, thinking beyond convention, and making circular ideas real.