At Berlin Design Week 2026, Studio Aufschnitt in Berlin Friedrichshain will show how material research is incorporated into the design process. Silvia Wald presents her work with new fibers in our studio at Boxhagener Straße 32.
Many materials already exist. They have been researched, developed, and validated in the laboratory. Between the scientific findings and the product someone buys and uses lies a world of difference. Silvia Wald works precisely in this world.
To Berlin Design Week 2026 Aufschnitt reopens its doors. Silvia demonstrates how a new fiber made from plant-based raw materials, recycled materials, or biotechnological processes finds its way into real-world applications.
The presentation showcases examples from collaborations with research institutes: materials for home textiles, fashion, and technical textiles, for example, for the automotive industry. What makes it special is its practical relevance. Silvia provides in-depth insights into her work and presents the documented results of her application tests.
What to expect: Application tests for new fibers
Over the past few years, Silvia Wald has conducted application tests for fibers in collaboration with leading textile research institutions and materials companies. These fibers have diverse origins: natural plant fibers, recycled textile fibers, and biotechnological processing.
The central question of her work: Where does a fiber work? Where does it not? What needs to change so that it is practical for everyday use, aesthetically pleasing, and ecologically sound? She will present the answers to these questions live in conversation at Berlin Design Week.
The research network behind the presentation
- ATB Potsdam (Leibniz Institute): scientific integration into biomaterials research
- STFI Chemnitz: Textile testing and standardization of fiber properties
- Re:Fresh Global: recycled textile fibers as a raw material basis
- Field fibers: Plant-based elemental fibers (hemp, nettle, flax) from German cultivation
- Daniel Hengst: artistic research on plant material and perception
Program for Berlin Design Week 2026
| Date | May 28, 2026 |
| Location | Cold cuts, Boxhagener Straße 32, 10245 Berlin |
| format | Live presentation & exhibition |
| admission | Tickets available at Eventbrite |
| presentation | May 28, 2026 at 7:00 PM |
| Application areas | Home textiles / Fashion / Technical textiles / Automotive |
About Silvia Wald, designer and materials researcher
Silvia Wald works at the intersection of materials research and design application. She takes a holistic approach to the question of what a new material can achieve in the real world. As a designer and researcher, she bridges the gap between science and product.
She loves to express herself creatively and scientifically. Her creativity is reflected in her Berlin-based label, Aufschnitt. Her scientific interest complements her passion for delving deeply into subject matter.
- Silvia Wald is a frequent participant in Berlin Design Week. Here you can find the Blog post about Berlin Design Week 2025. Last year, oversized installations were shown, in which Silvia participated.
- We look forward to meeting you. We also warmly welcome students from HTW Berlin. Silvia studied clothing technology there and is happy to share her knowledge and offer inspiration on career opportunities with this degree.