Social Innovation Lab (S+)

Social Innovation Lab (S+)

 

Design in terms of stylistic function has long passed. We are presented with real-world challenges which such complexity that simple design approaches do not provide workable solutions for the communities we live in. To entangle these interconnected contexts, a multi-disciplinary approach is needed to build inclusive and sustainable living environments for our future communities. Social Innovation Lab adopts a holistic approach, acknowledging that collaborations are essential to create impact within national and international contexts.

The Social Innovation Lab (S+) is user-centered and strongly led by practice-based research: – through sustainable material research, we change our use of and access to resources, – through cultural analysis and a deeper understanding of the past, we can co-create the future, – through socially engaged practices, we can educate change.

Lab Leaders: Emanuela Corti +Vicente Esteban

 

Examples of ongoing research projects:

Year awarded Project name Principal investigator Funding body
2023 Development of Haptics in Intimacy: Textile Based Soft Robotics for Tactile Sensations Emanuela Corti XJTLU Research Development Fund (RDF)

 

Examples of exhibitions:

Year exhibited Contribution name Designer Event
2025 Tactilia Emanuela Corti, Ivan Parati Design Shanghai
2024 Act Globally & Act Locally Together Vicente Esteban World Urban Forum Expo
2024 Interactive Lighting Emanuela Corti, Nuno Bernardo, Vicente Esteban Milan Design Week