Consultancy
WHAT IF A GROUP COULD CHANGE THE WAY WE THINK?
Textiles reflect our mood and shape our surroundings. They impact on our lives and on the environment. Yet the future demands we change the dynamics and re-evaluate our thinking. Our design group is set up to do just that.
Textile Futures Reseach Consultancy, launched in October 2008, brings unique research knowledge out of academia, putting it within reach of business. The TFRC team comprises staff and associates from colleges across the University of the Arts London spanning Central St Martins, Chelsea College of Art and Design, and the London College of Fashion, the consultancy is supported by CSM Innovation.
We bring unrivalled creative talent and scientific expertise across the spectrum of design fields. We look beyond disposability to sustainability. We no longer simply recycle, we upcycle. We look to push the parameters of technology without losing our focus of aesthetics. We want to provoke debate not just about how materials behave, but how society behaves. We are here to investigate, to inform and above all, to inspire.
HOW CAN WE HELP YOU SEE THE FUTURE MATERIALISE?
We have a portfolio of collaborations and commissions with world brands. In addition, a collection of international exhibitions and design awards that reflect the recognition of our peers. We inspire through speaking and visualise through workshops bringing fresh perspectives and stimulating new thinking. We undertake future-oriented materials research, design experiments and installations spanning fashion, science, architecture, interiors,sports,health and wellbeing and sustainable sectors. The concepts we find most exciting are the ones that have yet to materialise.
Our areas of expertise cover Biomimetics, Nanotechnology, Smart materials, Electroluminescence, Conductive materials, Laser technology, Photonics, Motion response, 2D to 4D digital media, Visioneering, Communication wear, Customised clothing, Ethical fashion, Sustainable design, Upcycling.
Contact:
Tel. +44 (0) 207 514 8469
Email tfrc@tfrc.org.uk
WHAT IF IT COULD BE UPCYCLED TO CREATE SUPERIOR PRODUCTS?
Concept
Re-creating design solutions from waste streams using new technologies and sustainable printing techniques
Research Methodology
A combination of 3D printing techniques,rapid prototyping, laser cutting, computer graphic visualisation, motion capture and advanced textile design.
Results
Materials are now seen as having multiple life-cycles to become part of a sustainable process.
HOW CAN WE MAKE THE VIRTUAL WORLD MORE SENSUAL?
Concept
To explore new 3D modelling and material design concepts digitally
Research Methodology
A combination of 3D printing techniques,rapid prototyping, laser cutting, computer graphic visualisation, motion capture and advanced textile design
Results
Digital design innovations that expand the perception of material forms
WHAT IF IT COULD ENHANCE PERFORMANCE AND DESIGN?
Concept
That bespoke sportswear can be engineered to enhance mood, as well improve performance
Research Methodology
Thermo chromic technology and rapid prototyping are harnessed to create responsive and customised sportswear
Results
An evolution in fashioning materials for fitness apparel
WHAT IF IT COULD BE USED TO TRANSFORM SHAPE?
Concept
To create reactive, luminous surfaces, objects and architectural structures
Research Methodology
Electroluminescent technology, biomimetics and sensory and kinetic devices allow textiles to become conductive and responsive
Results
Innovative polymer recycling and plastics technology, together with laser cutting and eco-print techniques are used to produce unique surface treatments and end products
