Foodvalley

Dynamic by Nature

Project
Office
Location
Wageningen University
Realization
2020

Foodvalley, situated on the campus of Wageningen University, is a network organization dedicated to the sustainable transition of the agri- and food industry. All members share the same end goal but navigate their own unique paths to get there. That realization quickly led to a concept: the Swarm. An idea we translated into the interior with organic forms that define zones without enclosing them, creating fluid pathways that keep the space dynamic and engaging.

From Waste to Building Material

Since Foodvalley operates within the agri-food sector, we aimed to incorporate as many waste streams from the industry as possible, reinforcing the necessity of circularity and bio-based materials. During this exploration, we discovered dozens of remarkable materials—many of which we couldn’t immediately apply but still deserved a place. 

These found a home in a showcase at the entrance, where visitors first encounter walls made of cork or eggshell, upholstery crafted from coffee grounds, wallpaper infused with alpine meadow flowers, seaweed-based tiles, mycelium table legs, and chairs pressed from artichoke hearts. The countertop, seamlessly extending into the meeting table, is even made with waste from the flax industry.

The space breathes flexibility. Freestanding elements and loose objects create playful sightlines and a dynamic flow. To optimize acoustics, we collaborated with artist David Smeulders to design panels made from recycled PET felt. The design language of these panels was then woven back into Foodvalley’s branding and visual identity.