Ecofiltro Europe x Lab AIR
An Interactive Water Experience at Dutch Design Week 2024
At this year’s Dutch Design Week (DDW) in Eindhoven, visitors explored sustainable design at the (w)aardewerk exhibition, held at De Fabriek and organized by Crafts Council Nederland. This exhibition brought together artists and designers committed to sustainable practices in ceramics, focusing on themes such as ecological impact, resource conservation, and waste reduction.
Lab AIR’s project, led by Iris de Kievith, featured a compelling installation showcasing three “antique inventions for a clean future”—three functional objects designed to address modern environmental challenges. Among these was a unique water filter, directly inspired by Ecofiltro’s natural filtration process. Iris’s version of the filter, crafted from locally sourced clay and infused with sustainable principles, demonstrated how traditional methods could be reimagined to support contemporary eco-conscious goals. The installation included a water bar with an Ecofiltro unit, where visitors could experience clean, filtered tap water, reinforcing the exhibition’s commitment to practical sustainability.
The water bar blended seamlessly with the exhibition, designed by Elvis Wesley Studio, aligning with the event's message of promoting eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics. As guests poured themselves a drink, they were encouraged to reflect on the essential need for accessible, sustainable resources in daily life.
The (w)aardewerk exhibition featured works by artists and studios such as Atelier Max Lipsey, Studio Christine Jetten, Studio Luske, and master craftsman Niek Hoogland, inviting attendees to reconsider the materials and objects they encounter every day. Visitors also participated in the (w)aardewerk atelier, a hands-on clay workshop held daily, which highlighted the tactile and ecological value of sustainable ceramics.
Crafts, Community, and a Vision for Sustainability
This year’s exhibition explored innovative approaches to ceramics and sustainable water filtration, reflecting Ecofiltro's values of simplicity and environmental stewardship. Iris de Kievith’s project with Lab AIR exemplified how traditional methods could inform and enhance contemporary sustainable practices. Alongside other designers like Kim Blekkenhorst and Simone Post, Iris’s work showed how design can reshape habits and reduce waste.
Photography and Acknowledgments
The exhibition was beautifully captured by photographer Fan Liao. Special thanks to Crafts Council Nederland and Lab AIR for organizing this meaningful experience, demonstrating how art and sustainability can intersect to inspire change. To learn more, visit Crafts Council Nederland or Lab AIR.
For more details on Iris de Kievith’s project, Old Ceramic Inventions for a Clean Future, visit this link.
The water bar at DDW was a small but meaningful way for Ecofiltro to support sustainable design. We’re grateful for the chance to contribute to such an impactful project and look forward to future collaborations in sustainability.
