At ICFF 2026, the conversation around sustainability expanded beyond aesthetics and carbon metrics to address a critical but often overlooked issue within the built environment: material toxicity. Presented within The OASIS, the new Materials section—created in partnership with Parsons Healthy Materials Lab (HML) and sponsored by Cosentino, Duracryl, Habitat Matter, and Hydro—offered an immersive exploration of healthier, climate-positive alternatives and the future of responsible material innovation.
Founded by architects, designers, and Parsons professors Jonsara Ruth and Alison Mears, Healthy Materials Lab has spent the past decade advocating for greater transparency and accountability in the chemical composition of building products. Their mission stems from a shared belief that architecture and design can directly improve human well-being and serve as tools for social and environmental justice.
(Image above courtesy of Jenna Bascom Photography, featuring the Materials space)
Traditional repair techniques, showcased by Veterans Caning (Image courtesy of Jenna Bascom Photography)
Alkemis Paint (Image courtesy of Jenna Bascom Photography)
At ICFF, HML translated this research-driven approach into an engaging series of workshops and hands-on experiences that invited attendees to reconsider the materials specified in everyday practice. From traditional repair techniques showcased through Veterans Caning to conversations around carbon literacy with Martha Lewis, the programming emphasized actionable strategies for reducing environmental impact while prioritizing occupant health.
A standout moment came with Alkemis Paint’s interactive workshop exploring mineral-based paints as an alternative to conventional acrylic and plastic-based coatings. Reflecting HML’s ongoing research into accessible, bio-based, and regenerative materials, the session highlighted how even commonplace finishes can play a meaningful role in creating healthier interiors.
Hydro Works (Image courtesy of Jenna Bascom Photography)
Hydro also brought its long-term sustainability initiatives into the conversation. The Norwegian aluminum manufacturer, which is recognized as the largest fully integrated aluminum producer outside of China, continues to advance low-carbon production through renewable energy, recycled materials, and its Hydro CIRCAL post-consumer scrap program. Through its partnership with Healthy Materials Lab at ICFF, Hydro reinforced the role architects and designers play in shaping a more responsible material future.
Jonsara Ruth in the Materials space (Image courtesy of Jenna Bascom Photography)
Operating from an independent academic platform at Parsons School of Design, HML continues to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical application through open-source educational courses, material libraries, and extensive product evaluation resources. To date, more than 20,000 participants have completed the organization’s Healthy Materials Advocate program, further expanding awareness across the design industry.
Through its partnership with ICFF 2026, Healthy Materials Lab reinforced a growing industry shift toward materials that not only reduce environmental harm, but actively support human health, transparency, and long-term resilience.
