About the talks
When: 16, 17 September, 12.30pm to 1.30pm
The world moves fast, and whilst there's always pressure to keep up with new ideas, trends and renovations, change shouldn't mean waste.
Once a symbol of economic permanence, these lunchtime material sessions from Surface Matter will explore the transformation of reclaimed British bank notes into crafted furniture. Each session will offer a deeper look into the innovative use of reclaimed, recycled, and reconstructed materials, shedding light on the collaborative processes that make circular design possible, highlighting how discarded materials can be given new life through craftsmanship and innovation.
The lunchtime talks complement the Reconstructing Value showcase; a striking collaboration between the Bank of England, Plasticiet and Surface Matter, which will unveil a new exhibition for the London Design Festival: a sculptural installation made from £2.5 million worth of reconstructed British bank notes. Cast into bespoke curved forms and arranged to create the iconic pound symbol (£), the pieces debut in the Stock room of the Bank of England Museum - the historic home of Britain’s currency.
You’ll also have the chance to explore curated displays of pioneering recycled materials, as Surface Matter will present a curated series of material palettes to accompany the furniture installation. These recycled surfaces reinterpret the colour, texture and materiality of the bank’s historic interiors - from roman mosaic tiles and Portland stone to timber joinery, patinated brass and bronze detailing - alongside palettes referencing the colours of British Bank notes.
Whether you're looking to expand your material knowledge or stay at the forefront of sustainable practice, this session will inform, inspire, and challenge how you think about waste and its potential in design.
About the speakers
Surface Matter believe even the trickiest materials have huge potential and help to keep them valuable forever. Starting out as Proud Materialists in 2013. Obsessed with materials, they have gone to great lengths to find exciting materials, that people can use in the right way.
They create opportunities for people to reuse materials and extend its lifecycle, considering everything from takeback logistics to assessment and action. Surface Matter are always finding and developing new ways to return, renew and reuse materials, alongside cultivating a community so more people can get involved and help complete the circle.
Essential Information
- The event is free, but booking is essential.
- Talks run from 12.30pm to 1.30pm, 16 and 17 September.
- Tickets include general admission to the museum, including the pop-up showcase from Surface Matter.
