Research And Design
Collaborative design research solving real-world challenges
We partner with organizations to prototype, test, and scale products, materials and services — focused on sustainability, inclusivity and extreme environments.
We combine studio practice, laboratory testing, and people‑centred research to move ideas from discovery to impact. Our work spans systems design, future scenarios, and inclusive product development tailored to industry partners, public organizations, and community groups.
Our Research Themes
01 Design Through Systems
- Research and prototypes that reveal systemic barriers, improve circularity and enable scalable supply‑chain change.
02 Design for Extremes & Futures
- Design solutions for harsh/remote contexts and climate‑stressed systems that prioritize reliability and human safety.
03 Design With Inclusivity
- Co‑design methods and prototypes that center diverse lived experience and reduce barriers to use and adoption
Our Process
We turn ideas into tested, real-world solutions through an iterative, collaborative process.
Collaborative
We work with companies, organizations and institutions to design and deliver solutions for complex and evolving challenges.
End-to-End
We help partners frame their problem and identify what they need through all aspects of the full material, product, service, or system cycle.
Long-term Focused
We look to connect with partners for ongoing collaborative relationships that can span multiple projects, approaches and evolve over time.
Our Expertise
Our research expertise brings together material innovation, product development, and people and planet-centered design—turning emerging ideas into tested, real-world applications.
Textile & Apparel Benchmarking
We evaluate materials and products through testing, comparison, and performance analysis.
New Material Translation
We translate experimental, lab-scale materials into functional products and wearable systems.
People-led PPE Design
We build next-gen personal protective equipment via people/planet centered design.
Prototyping for Extreme Environments
We design and prototype devices, garments, and shelters for extreme and high-risk environments.
Inclusive Fit & Niche Sizing
We develop data-driven approaches to fit through soft-tissue research and specialized sizing systems.
Community-Based Systems Research
We work with communities to map complex challenges and opportunities for design intervention.
Ways to Work With Us!
Fee for Service Projects
These projects address industry gaps and are discovery-led in our response and approach. This may involve benchmarking, prototyping, problem framing, concept development and field testing. Project fees and services are available on request.
Funded Research Projects
These projects evolve through partnerships and involve identification of relevant external funding bodies. Through collaboration research grant proposals will be developed to support large or small scale projects.
Course-Based Research Projects
These projects are created for student course based exploration. Research projects that are framed and scheduled to aligns with curriculum and outcomes are student driven. A Four-month timeframe is required for project development.
Meet Our Researchers
Co-Chair of Research & Design
Co-Chair of Research & Design
Lab Spaces + Equipment
Our 1,200 m² facilities include soft-goods production labs, a hard goods workshop, and digital prototyping and material testing spaces. We support 2D, 3D, and digital prototyping across a wide range of materials and techniques. We have a dedicated, secure space (105 m2) for externally funded research projects that have IP implications
Soft goods & apparel prototyping equipment
- Standard lockstitch machines
- Knit construction machinery
- Ultrasonic welder
- Seam sealers
- Heat press
- Long arm and post walking-foot machines
Digital to physical prototyping equipment
- Computer lab with specialty 3D software
- Fusion deposition 3D printers
- CNC mill
- Laser cutters
- Various large-scale printers/plotters
Hard goods prototyping equipment
Wood and metal prototyping equipment
- Bandsaw
- Table saw
- Miter saw
- Drill press
- Metal sheet cutter, roller and press
- Wood planer
- Wood lathe
Material analysis equipment
- Light booth
- Hydrostatic testing machine
- Rotary platform abraser
- Multi test stand
- Random tumble pilling tester
- Moisture management testing
- Crockmeter
Material library & resource room
- Samples of materials (both hard and soft for a variety of industries), and studio space for exploring lighting; photography studio space.
Work With Us!
Interested in working with us? Design research works by first helping partners to frame the problem and what they need.
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Our research collaborations begin with a conversation.
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Tell us about your organization and your design research needs using the form —this helps us prepare for a more focused discussion.
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Once submitted, our team will review your inquiry and connect with you to determine next steps.
