Designer Joris de Groot often collaborates directly with factories, setting up his workplace within their grounds to get a deep understanding of their materials and innovate with their existing techniques. This allows him to blend traditional craftsmanship with industrial processes, resulting in unique and sustainable designs.
His project “2000N Pressed Shoe” (2018) emerged from his project “In4nite II” with Freudenberg, a company specializing in car interior materials. Joris explored the potential of Colback®, a material used in car upholstery, to create shoes. By understanding and experimenting with the molding process used in automotive interiors, he transformed Colback® into a fashion material. “2000N Pressed Shoe” is distinctive for its use of industrial techniques to create aesthetic details, showcasing the intricate patterns and textures that arise from this innovative process.
“By understanding and experimenting with the molding process used in automotive interiors, he transformed Colback® into a fashion material.”
“Recycled Raincoat” (2021) is another collaboration between Joris and Dolfing Druten. Together, they tackled the issue of cutting waste from rain jacket production. By researching the shapes of leftover fabric pieces, Joris developed patterns that could be welded together to form new raincoats. This approach not only minimizes waste but also transforms discarded materials into valuable products, highlighting his innovative use of existing resources to create sustainable fashion.
“This approach not only minimizes waste but also transforms discarded materials into valuable products, highlighting his innovative use of existing resources to create sustainable fashion.”
For “Weld Bag” (2013), Joris partnered with Dolfing Druten, a manufacturer of work clothes and rain gear, to develop a collection of bags. He repurposed high-frequency welding techniques typically used for creating waterbeds and rainwear to design unique bag handles and shapes.
“The factory is my playground, searching for new possibilities with the tools I can find.” – Joris de Groot
Explore STUDIO JORIS DE GROOT in the Sustainable Innovations Forum at KEYHOUSE in Hall 7!
THIS MIGHT BE ALSO INTERESTING FOR YOU
Additionals Trends Spring.Summer 26 – Part 8
20. January 2025
Trims and packaging are branding items we shouldn’t take for granted – they are a signature that transforms the ordinary into the unforgettable.
SPRING.SUMMER 26 FABRIC HIGHLIGHTS & MATERIAL NOVELTIES – PART V
19. January 2025
Their philosophy,“Drawing art with threads, conveying emotions through embroidery,” ensures every product is not just visually stunning but also deeply meaningful.
The Source Collection’s News at MUNICH FABRIC START
19. January 2025
Neutral sand mélange and off-white jacquards set a sophisticated tone, while soft yarn jersey pieces bring effortless comfort.
Additionals Trends Spring.Summer 26 – Part 7
18. January 2025
Whether haptic or visual - it's all about contrasts, which in combination provide impulses and demand new ways of thinking. Perfect for brands that want to make bold statements!
Kantamanto Social Club
17. January 2025
The mission of Kantamanto Social Club is clear: to empower communities in the Global South. It aims to shine a spotlight on communities, particularly those whose circular and regenerative practices have been undervalued for too long.
Curiosity, Courage and Craftmanship
17. January 2025
The projects I selected this season challenge us to rethink everything from raw materials to end products and production processes, whilst emphasising on sustainability as an ongoing dialogue.
Cartoon – Fashion for courage, joie de vivre and self-realisation
16. January 2025
Welcome to Cartoon - your invitation to a life full of courage, joie de vivre and self-realisation!
The Source Collection’s News: EAST
16. January 2025
Fashion is not only about following trends, but also about expressing your creativity and personality.
KEYHOUSE NEWS – PaperTale
15. January 2025
Whether you’re exploring product traceability, seeking to streamline compliance, or driving sustainability, PaperTale provides the tools to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.
Additionals Trends Spring.Summer 26 – Part 6
15. January 2025
From timeless luxury to durable workwear solutions, each collection reflects their commitment to responsible sourcing and innovative design.