Conor McArthur
Product Design - Master of European Design
Glasgow School of Art
Specialisms: Industrial Design / Material Innovation / Sustainable Design
Location: Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Conor McArthur
First Name: Conor
Last Name: McArthur
Specialisms: Industrial Design / Material Innovation / Sustainable Design
Sectors:
My Location: Edinburgh, United Kingdom
University / College: Glasgow School of Art
Course / Program Title: Product Design - Master of European Design
About
I am an industrial designer from Scotland, recently graduated from the Master of European Design course at the Glasgow School of Art and awarded a prize for ecological innovation.
My course was unique in offering two exchange years, allowing me to study at some of Europe's leading design institutes - ENSCI, Paris and Politecnico di Milano.
My designs are grounded in environmentally conscious principles, with a particular focus on regenerative material innovation. My final year thesis explored material innovation using seaweed, a versatile and abundant resource local to Scotland.
I am now seeking opportunities to continue pursuing my passions and to grow as a designer.
Kelpworks: Exploring seaweed as a sustainable material
This Project aims to challenge the conventional use of extractive and finite materials while redefining perceptions of regenerative biomaterials. Focusing on seaweed, a locally abundant resource in the UK, a practical textile, 'seaweed leather' was developed in collaboration with Scottish seaweed experts and event organisers. A segment of a conceptual pavilion was designed and built, featuring modular and scalable elements. This functional social space provides seating, shelter, and privacy using reclaimed wood and seaweed panelling. Ultimately, this work bridges the gap between biomaterial innovation and practical application.
Competitions
