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From light pollution to e-waste and healthy ageing to biomaterials, the Festival of Futures is all set to show how design research can respond to an array of local and global challenges.
Lab4Living is pleased to be part of this collaborative event hosted by Lancaster University from March 8 to 15 and will include an exciting exhibition which is open to all.
Organised by ImaginationLancaster – Lancaster University’s design-led research lab – and three other centres of design research excellence across the UK, the event is a must for those keen to see how current effective design can ring the changes for the future
Participating organisations include The Centre for Print Research at University of the West of England, Bristol; The Hub for Biotechnology in the Built Environment at Newcastle University and Northumbria University; and Lab4Living at Sheffield Hallam University.
Each organisation was funded through UK Research and Innovation’s ground-breaking Expanding Excellence in England (E3) funding awarded in 2019.
Over the last four years these centres have applied their design expertise to work on local and global challenges.
The Festival of Futures exhibition – designed for a public audience – will include an enticing showcase of more than 30 exhibits from all four centres including Mythical Data, a Cabinet of Curiosities, Sensing the Luminous Night and Man-made Gems.
A symposium will be held on March 15th. This is a joint venture by all four participating organisations, presents innovative approaches developed around the role of design to promote a healthy, connected, ageing population and what this could mean for the future home and built environment.
This event will also explore the use of design research to accelerate our journey towards net zero, envisioning designs that contribute to positive social and environmental impacts.
For Lab4Living the Festival of Futures is the culmination of the £4.43 million 100 Year Life and The Future Home Project funded by Research England and Sheffield Hallam University demonstrating how cutting-edge design research can contribute to a healthier and sustainable world.
Head of Lab4Living Professor Paul Chamberlain states “Research England have provided an incredible opportunity for academics, individuals, diverse communities and business, to engage in creative design led projects that address social challenges. The considerable research undertaken has made a positive difference to people’s lives and will leave a legacy through ongoing impact”.
The Festival of Futures is open to designers, researchers and anyone interested in the application of design and design research to solve complex societal challenges. The event is in person only.
The full programme for the Festival and exhibition opening times can be viewed here where you can also register your free place at the events.
