How design can help a coral reef- Designing for people, restoring for nature.
Michaela Smeds
University of Gävle
Inspired by my volunteer work in coral reef restoration in Bali, this project explores how industrial design can contribute to restoring damaged marine ecosystems while supporting the people working to protect them. Using a human-centred design process (including observation, interviews, literature studies, material experimentation, prototyping, and testing) I investigated how restoration structures could be designed around the practical challenges faced by coral restoration teams. The result is a modular reef structure developed to simplify manufacturing, transportation, underwater handling, and assembly in remote restoration sites. Its form was shaped by the needs of divers, aiming to reduce physical strain and make restoration work safer and more efficient. Alongside the structural design, the project explores a more sustainable material solution using locally available marine-based resources such as seashells, salt water and volcanic ash. Building on emerging research, the material also shows potential to support coral resilience to environmental stress and bleaching. With my work I want to demonstrate how design can connect scientific knowledge, environmental sustainability, and the realities of hands-on conservation work. To me, this project demonstrates how awareness and thoughtful design can help us shape a more sustainable future.