Taking place in March 2026 in Utrecht, MaterialDistrict brings together designers, makers, and material innovators from across Europe. The fair showcases new materials and applications, including many that emerge from waste streams and material reuse.

Event description

MaterialDistrict Utrecht is where materials take centre stage. You walk through a carefully curated exhibition of innovative materials, surfaces, and applications, presented by designers, startups, research institutes, and established brands.

Waste transformation plays a visible role here. Among new bio-based and technical materials, you will find projects that start with discarded resources and rethink how they can be used again. From recycled plastics and textiles to construction waste and experimental composites, the fair shows how waste can become a starting point for design rather than an afterthought.

For Waste Alchemists, MaterialDistrict is interesting because it sits right at the intersection of making, designing, and rethinking materials. Not everything here is fully circular, but many ideas explore longer lifespans, smarter use of resources, and alternative material choices. It is a place to discover what is possible today and to spot early signals of where waste transformation might be heading next.

What you can expect

• A curated exhibition of innovative materials and applications
• Designers, makers, and material developers from different sectors
• Materials originating from reuse, recycling, and waste streams
• Talks and presentations offering context and insights
• Plenty of space to look closely, touch, and ask questions

Who it’s for

• Designers, architects, and makers
• Material researchers and innovators
• Professionals curious about waste-based materials
• Anyone interested in how materials shape products and systems

Practical information

• Date: 4-6 of March 2026
• Time: 10:00 to 18:00 (Wednesday & Thursday), 10:00 to 17:00 (Friday)
• Location: Werkspoorkathedraal, Utrecht
• Tickets / registration: Required, via the event website

Feel like joining?

Take a closer look at MaterialDistrict Utrecht and see which materials, makers, and ideas you want to spend time with.