Living Reef
Living Reef is a public exhibition that presents research on sustainable design. The exhibition shows work made with Direct Ink Writing 3D printing and circular materials, including recycled slurry, low carbon cement and clay. Small scale fired clay prototypes and large printed components are displayed on plinths and in enclosed cabinets. The layout follows a clear route, from concept development and digital modeling to material tests, fabrication limits and final prototypes. The aim is to explain how design education can support circular material use and coral reef restoration.
Living Reef Exhibition by Daisuke Nagatomo and Minnie Jan has been identified as a grand example of industrial design by the A' Design Award. Living Reef Exhibition earned the Iron A' Design Award in Sustainable Products, Projects and Green Design in 2026. The A' Sustainable Products, Projects and Green Design Award is an international, juried, academic and meritocratic design recognition program that honors outstanding design of sustainable projects, environment friendly designs, recycled, upcycled, bio-degradable products, Energy-Efficient appliances and more.
