Biodesign Makerspace
The Biodesign Makerspace was funded through a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF), both to test the impacts of biophilic design in an educational setting, and to provide a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) focused makerspace for working with nature's technologies. The space brings patterns of nature into the built environment in ways expected to increase concentration, focus and productivity, as well as encourage a sense of well-being and a connection to the local ecosystem. Designed by RISD students in a Spring 2018 Interior Architecture studio, it was built by a cohort of RISD students over the summer of 2018.
Biodesign Makerspace
The Biodesign Makerspace (Room 11) is a shared resource on campus for students to learn about the design inspired by nature and experiment with Biomaterials. Workshops are hosted periodically to train students on biomaterials, lab safety, and room protocols. Students may work in the Biodesign Makerspace by appointment only after completing a workshop, and cannot check out equipment until completing a workshop.
Workshops
Biomaterials Workshops are periodically held throughout the academic year, open to both RISD and Brown students + faculty. The workshops serve as an introduction to the field of bio-materials in art and design, centering the question of how we can begin to work with the natural environment, looking towards design processes and new materials that offer a more sustainable practice and future. Workshops include a presentation over the uses and application of biomaterials, lab protocol overview, and a bioplastics making session. No prior experience required. Please make your WORKSHOP appointments HERE (Must be signed in with RISD email).
Open Hours Work Sessions
After attending a workshop, students may make an appointment to come and use equipment to make biomaterials in the Biodesign Makerspace at designated hours during the week. Work sessions are 2 hours long. YOU MUST HAVE ATTENDED A WORKSHOP TO ATTEND A WORK SESSION. Please make your WORK SESSION appointments HERE.
Mondays: 9:30 am - 1 pm (by appointment only)
Tuesdays: 9:30 am - 4 pm (by appointment only)
Wednesdays: 1:30 am - 4 pm (by appointment only)
Thursdays: 9 pm - 4:30 pm (by appointment only)
Saturdays: 10 - 4 pm (first come first serve)
If you have any questions, please reach out to biomaterials@risd.edu.