Insights & Trends from the TerraNova event at Design Week

Hello to our Dear Chommies Community,

We’re excited to share highlights from our recent gathering at The House of Chommies for the inaugural Design Week—a celebration of visionary ideas, resilience, and the African design community’s power to shape a sustainable future.

Terra Nova—Latin for “new land” or “new earth”—captures the spirit of discovery and exploration at the heart of design’s future. In choosing this name, we wanted to evoke a sense of uncharted possibilities, where designers and creatives navigate new landscapes shaped by emerging technologies, shifting cultural values, and evolving sustainability practices.

The future of design is a journey into the unknown, a “new land” that challenges our current thinking and invites us to redefine what is possible.

Terra Nova symbolises this shift, encouraging our audience to consider design as a powerful tool for transformation and as a way to build a more innovative, inclusive, and sustainable world.

Our Journey: Uniting Design and Sustainability

Joined by inspiring leaders in trend forecasting, design, and sustainable winemaking, we explored how the Fourth Industrial Revolution can and must become a regenerative force in society. Huge thank you to speakers:

• Anja Joubert, the founder of Department of Trend
• Chris Reid, Trend researcher
• Barbara Melk, winemaker at Vine Hugger and Reyneke
• Bielle Bellingham, Chommies Business and Marketing Director

This event highlighted the crucial role of design at this moment in time, as our choices impact not only aesthetics but also the health of our planet.

 

Here’s what we discussed and the essential calls to action for those who couldn’t join us:

Embrace Global Trends and Lead Locally
Africa is primed to lead in sustainable innovation. We have an incredible opportunity to both adapt to and set global trends by leveraging local resources, traditions, and talents.

Invest in Regenerative Materials
The future of design is rooted in regenerative resources. Innovations like Mycel®—a biobased alternative to leather and plastics made from natural latex and mushrooms—represent the potential of materials that nurture the environment rather than deplete it. Let’s prioritise materials that truly support our planet. (Explore our new Down to Earth Collection which used mycelium leather here.)

Stay Ahead of Consumer Demand for Sustainability
With consumer behaviour shifting toward eco-friendly choices, designers and brands must proactively integrate sustainable practices. This is not only about staying competitive but also resonating with environmentally conscious audiences who prioritise ethical brands.

Future-Proof Through Innovation
Keep updated on advancements in technology, materials, and production processes. Embrace new tools and knowledge to future-proof your career and designs, especially as sustainability becomes closely linked to innovation.

Mobilise the Power of Community
Collaboration is key to transformative change. By joining forces across sectors—from technology to materials science—we can address social, environmental, and economic challenges collectively. Together, we can ensure the growth and resilience of the African design industry.

Blend Tradition with Innovation
African design has a rich heritage that, when paired with cutting-edge innovation, creates a unique and forward-thinking identity. This blend of tradition and technology is not only sustainable but also distinctively African.

Luxury and Sustainability Can Go Hand in Hand
Eco-conscious and high-end products can coexist beautifully. Embrace materials like mushroom leather that offer durability, luxury, and environmental responsibility. The future of luxury lies in this harmony between exclusivity and sustainability.

Special Thanks to Our Partners

A huge thank you to our incredible partners for making the event truly memorable:

Studio H for creating the most magical, mycelium-based experimental food, including 3D-printed edible treats and a captivating multi-sensory experience.

Vine Hugger for sharing their biodynamic wines, embodying sustainability in winemaking.

Jack Black for providing refreshing, locally crafted beer.

 

As we reflect on these insights, we look ahead with excitement for the transformative potential within the African design community.

Each choice we make counts, and by prioritising sustainability, we ensure that African design doesn’t just grow—it thrives in harmony with our planet.

Thank you for being part of this journey, and for your commitment to a sustainable, resilient future. Together, we can redefine design for the better.

Until next time,
The Chommies Team