Botanica

Formafantasma is a research-based design studio that investigates how design can address ecological, historical, social and political issues. Founded by Andrea Trimarchi and Simone Farresin (Italian graduates of Design Academy Eindhoven) in 2009, Milan- and Rotterdam-based Formafantasma proposes interventions that connect our natural and built environments.

The properties of plant and animal-derived secretions have been known for thousands of years and predate the use of plastics, often displaying incredible longevity. Formafantasma designed its Botanica collection as if the era of oil and plastic never took place. Formafantasma investigated the pre-Bakelite period, discovering unexpected textures, feelings and technical possibilities offered by natural polymers extracted from gums, resins, rubber, shellac and even animal blood. These substances were applied to design objects to showcase their finest qualities and remind consumers that plastic has not always reigned supreme.