European Bamboo

Material Research Project

2025

European Bamboo is a material research project developed in collaboration with Studio Peipei and Bamboo d’Ici a bamboo farmer in Ambazac, France. While bamboo is widely used in other parts of the world, its presence in Europe is relatively recent and often viewed with caution — sometimes even as invasive. As a result, the plant remains largely misunderstood, despite its exceptional growth rate, strength and regenerative qualities.
‍
During a two-week on-site collaboration, we worked alongside the farmer in his daily harvesting and processing practice to understand the cultivation cycle and material behaviour of European bamboo.
In a standardized world that we live in, a large amount of harvested bamboo is currently not used. While the straight middle sections are typically processed, the dense base, the thinner tapered upper tips and the branching, leaf-covered ends are set aside and disregarded.
‍
Recognising the potential within these overlooked parts, the project began by separating, processing and storing them. Left to dry and mature at nature’s pace, the bamboo elements slowly stabilise over time. Through this gradual process, European Bamboo works toward a more holistic use of the plant – transforming what is usually left behind – into material for future applications and shifting how bamboo is perceived in a European context.
‍
The project was funded by the European Commission and the Goethe Institut.