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Yuki Abe

The Royal College of Art

Yuki Abe is a transdisciplinary designer whose practice moves between material exploration, ecological thinking and design engineering. His work transforms overlooked materials, wasted resources and environmental challenges into meaningful catalysts for social and ecological change. Motivated by a deep interest in nature, ecology and regenerative futures, Yuki explores how design can shift society forward by creating tangible systems, products and experiences that reconnect people with the living world.

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CO₂alescence

Category: Interior

Competitions: Home Competition 2026

CO₂alescence is a bio-mineral homeware project that turns carbon from an invisible emission into a tangible material for everyday life. Developed as a series of quietly functional objects, including plates and a flower vase, the project explores how natural and nature-based materials can be used to create durable interior pieces with measurable climate value. The material combines two CO₂ micro-sequestration processes. First, calcium hydroxide reacts with ambient CO₂ through mineral carbonation, forming stable calcium carbonate. Second, Chlorella vulgaris microalgae fixes CO₂ into biomass. These captured mineral and biological components are incorporated into a pine resin composite, creating a low-tox, stone-like material that is ambient-cured without kiln firing or solvent-heavy processing. The forms are soft, fluid and gently overlapping, inspired by the movement of air, carbon and natural sedimentation. Rather than presenting sustainability as a technical add-on, CO₂alescence makes carbon visible through objects that can sit naturally in kitchens, desks and living spaces. Each piece carries a discreet notation showing the approximate grams of CO₂ used in its making, transforming an abstract environmental metric into a personal, domestic fact. Designed for longevity, the material is water-resistant, durable and repairable. Damaged pieces can be reheated or patched using offcuts, while end-of-life objects can be mechanically re-ground and re-moulded into new forms. This creates a circular material loop that reduces waste and encourages long-term attachment. CO₂alescence responds to the need for alternatives to synthetic, disposable interiors by proposing a natural material system that is functional, emotionally resonant and reproducible with simple equipment. It is both a homeware collection and a material statement: carbon does not only have to be emitted, hidden or offset. It can be held, used and understood.

In association with Arts Thread

Working with our partners at Arts Thread to develop lifelong learning and career opportunities for students of fashion and design. Our partnership provides the opportunity to compete on a world stage, participate in industry led workshops, set up an outstanding portfolio and gain access to the resources that will kickstart careers in fashion and design.