The Materials Matter Summit: From Innovation to Collective Practice
Les Ateliers des Tanneurs, Rue des Tanneurs 58-62, 1000 Bruxelles, BelgiumWednesday 10 June 2026
As Europe advances its green and just transition, the materials we build with quietly shape everyday life — influencing human health, environmental resilience, and cultural identity.
This half-day public event brings together designers, architects, material innovators, researchers, policymakers, and civil society to explore how healthy and sustainable materials can move from niche innovation to everyday practice across Europe’s built environment.
Through interdisciplinary dialogue, keynote talks, and interactive labs, participants will engage with topics including:
Rooted in the values of the New European Bauhaus, the event creates space for exchange, collaboration, and collective action toward healthier, more beautiful, and regenerative futures.
What to expect:
Participants can expect an engaging and collaborative afternoon that combines inspiration, hands-on exploration, and collective dialogue. The summit will feature short keynote presentations and lightning talks from leaders in sustainable materials, architecture, design, policy, and innovation, alongside interactive breakout sessions designed to encourage participation across disciplines.
Throughout the event, attendees will have the opportunity to:
The atmosphere is intended to be open, participatory, and interdisciplinary — creating space for both critical discussion and meaningful connection.
Registration Notes:
Venue: Les Ateliers des TanneursRue des Tanneurs 58-62, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgiumdirections
The architectural ensemble comprising the Palais du Vin and the Merchie-Pède was renovated by architect Christophe Gillis of the firm OZON Architecture scrl. This extensive renovation led to the development of three complementary functions in this part of the block: housing, social and economic.
Connect with fellow architects, designers, researchers, policymakers, material innovators, and industry leaders while exploring the venue and meeting participants from across Europe's sustainable materials ecosystem.
Welcome remarks and framing of the afternoon, exploring how the values of the New European Bauhaus—sustainability, beauty, and inclusion—can help accelerate healthier and more regenerative material futures.
A series of lightning talks and keynote presentations showcasing innovative projects, research, policies, and practical approaches advancing healthy, circular, and regenerative materials across the built environment.
Facilitated breakout discussions designed to foster interdisciplinary exchange, hands-on exploration, and collaborative problem-solving around key material challenges and opportunities.
Participants come together to share key insights from the labs and contribute to a collective Material Manifesto outlining actionable pathways toward healthier, more circular, and regenerative material practices.
Continue the conversation over refreshments while building new connections and exploring opportunities for collaboration across design, policy, research, manufacturing, and industry.
Contact us for more info: [email protected]
REGISTRATION
Registrations are open.
Tickets: Free or Donation
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More information on [email protected]
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