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Material Evolution celebrates thoughtful design and redefines what it means to be new - expanding the idea of innovation to embrace rediscovery, reuse, and contextual creativity.
While evolution often implies novelty, Surface Design Show 2026 reframes it as a process of renewal, rethinking, and responsible transformation, where materials evolve through science, technology, culture, heritage, and circular design.
This year’s show invites us to explore breakthrough ideas while revaluing existing materials through creative application and material storytelling.
From recycled surfaces and reimagined waste streams to regenerative materials and nature-based innovation, SDS26 highlights design that is future-facing while celebrating past and present practice.
Drawing inspiration from the fashion industry’s advances in sustainability, the theme champions circular systems, material transparency, and inventive reuse. In doing so, Material Evolution bridges disciplines and encourages the surface design sector to adopt a more nuanced, regenerative approach to the future.
Sally Angharad
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