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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Lifestyle
Alice Fisher

February design news: bone light switches and feminist jewellery

Composite illustration of bone light switches, Tatty Devine jewellery designs, Indian traditional water works, LGBTQ+ Southwark centre and figurines by artist Jemma Gowland
Composite illustration of bone light switches, Tatty Devine jewellery designs, Indian traditional water works, LGBTQ+ Southwark centre and figurines by artist Jemma Gowland Composite: Guardian Design/World Monuments Fund/Tatty Devine/Collect/Martha Rawlinson/Souhaib Ghanmi

Design sometimes feels like a constant search for a better, brighter way to live life. A quest for new and innovative alternatives to the status quo. But, increasingly, is is the past that is presenting solutions. Two of this month’s stories look at revival rather than invention. Industrial designer Souhaib Ghanmi is investigating new ways to use animal bone. Currently categorised as a waste product of animal farming, this traditional material can also be used as a electrical and thermal insulator that’s also biodegradable. A great alternative to plastic.

The traditional water storage solutions of India are being similarly reappraised. Renovating historical wells and tanks may combat climate change and provide the solution to current water shortages.

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