»From the Laboratory to the Workbench« – Experimental co‑creation between material, crafting and research
From August 30 to September 5, 2026, international students from over 11 different countries and Fraunhofer researchers gathered at the Fraunhofer Center in Benediktbeuern to explore sustainable construction in interdisciplinary (research, crafting and design) laboratory and workshop settings. They tested materials, developed prototypes, reflected on collaborative processes, and presented their projects.
At the end of the week-long ideas workshop, the three teams presented their creative approaches and prototypes in order to receive feedback and further inspiration from a jury comprising members of the Fraunhofer Institute and external experts.
- Team: 'Bauwissen Reloaded' asked themselves: why do historic buildings often stand for centuries – and what can we learn from this today?
- Team 'Materials Made from Mushrooms' explored the possibilities that mycelium-based materials offer for sustainable material solutions: lightweight, energy-efficient to manufacture and biodegradable.
- Team 'Biobased Materials' looked into the numerous plant-based raw materials, such as straw and marsh plants, that Benediktbeuern had to offer and which hold great potential for bio-based construction applications.
