FERNANDA COSTA


Designer and Researcher


I explore the untapped potential of biomaterials otherwise regarded as waste in the intersection of design and technology and through critical lenses.





design@fernandacosta.co.uk

Instagram: @biomatterlab





FERNANDA COSTA


Designer and Researcher


I explore the untapped potential of biomaterials otherwise regarded as waste in the intersection of design and technology and through critical lenses.





design@fernandacosta.co.uk

Instagram: @biomatterlab






I am a Design Consultant with extensive experience in project implementation.

And as of October 2023, I am a Digital Media PhD student, from the Interactive technologies Institute (IST, Lisbon).

As a designer I make packaging that is functional, minimal, necessary. As a consultant,
I support companies that are making a difference by using novel and disruptive technologies that have a positive impact on the planet.

I hold an MA in Industrial Design from Central Saint Martins (UAL), where I’ve had the opportunity to mentor MA students and speak in the "Design Transforms" lecture series. My professional experience includes contributing to bioplastics research projects with SWU and UCL universities in the UK, with a focus on practical, waste-to-value solutions that tackle ecological challenges.

In the Bauhaus of the Seas Project, I am exploring the potential of sea-derived waste materials, diving into the stories of the people and places behind them for transmedia storytelling. Through digital documentation, I aim to amplify these stories, raising awareness of environmental impacts on coastal communities and inspiring wider user and citizen engagement.

Using design research methodologies, I’ll act as a connector, bringing together stakeholders in a collaborative process to uncover ethical opportunities for utilizing these materials. This exploration includes creating artifacts linked to digital storytelling, revealing their origins and value to communicate a deeper sense of purpose and provenance.


Experience: 

  • NOTPLA: Packaging Consultancy (2022-2024).

  • Loowatt: Design Lead, Packaging designer, Project implementation (From 2012 to 2021) 

  • Rap UK/(now ProAmpac): (2005 to 2010) In-house Designer; Creation of innovative food packaging solutions for brands such as McDonalds and Pret; co-creation of novel Modified Atmosphere packaging systems.

  • MA industrial Design  Mentor - 2017/2019

  • Tetrapak: Selected for intensive Design workshop /concept co-creation held in Sweden (2014)

  • MA Industrial Design - Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts, London (2012)