I’m a materials designer. I work between the lab and the finished object. I take new bio-based materials and find out what they can become: testing them by hand, making samples and prototypes, and showing where they could be used. Research partners often have a promising material but no clear picture of its applications. That’s where I come in.

In a project, I can take on:
design-led material development and hands-on testing
prototypes and demonstrators that show real applications for architecture, interiors and products
workshops with industry, users or students, to test ideas and gather feedback
visual communication of results for exhibitions, publications and dissemination

I’m a concept-driven designer and researcher working at the intersection of design research, innovation and material exploration.

Over the past five years, as the founder of Studio Sarmīte, I have developed projects that challenge conventional ways of thinking about materials, resources and production. My work combines research, critical thinking and experimentation to uncover overlooked opportunities and translate them into new concepts, material directions and tangible applications.

Projects such as PineSkins, a leather-like material developed from pine bark by-products, and (Un)woven, a biotextile made using discarded denim fibres, reflect my approach: starting with a question, looking beyond established assumptions and connecting seemingly unrelated ideas, resources and expertise to imagine new possibilities.

My strengths lie in the early stages of innovation. I enjoy framing problems, identifying opportunities, connecting complex information and turning research into clear, compelling concepts. I bring creative and analytical thinking together, build coherent narratives around ideas, and communicate them in ways that help others understand their potential.

I also enjoy shaping project direction and bringing different perspectives together. Through collaborations with industry partners and interdisciplinary teams, as well as educational and workshop projects, I have developed experience in guiding creative processes, connecting people and expertise, and moving ideas from initial exploration towards tangible outcomes.