SO-Colored research project by we+ explores the potential of natural microalgae pigments

we+ explores Microalgae pigments as a sustainable color source

Tokyo-based design studio we+ presents SO-Colored, a material-focused research project that investigates the color potential of microalgae. While microalgae have been widely studied for their applications in food production and biofuels, their chromatic characteristics remain underexplored. This project proposes a design-oriented approach to understanding and utilizing microalgae-derived pigments as a sustainable source of color.

Microalgae are microorganisms present across various environments, from water and rocky surfaces to roadsides and indoor spaces. Having emerged approximately 2.7 billion years ago, they are significant to the Earth’s ecological history, particularly for their role in oxygen production and biodiversity development. Contemporary research highlights their potential in fields such as CO2 absorption, pharmaceutical development, alternative energy sources, and functional food.

all images by Masayuki Hayashi, Takumi Ota, Kanichi Murase

SO-Colored showcases design applications for bio-based colors

SO-Colored centers on the range of natural hues found in different microalgae species. While commonly associated with green, microalgae can also produce red, yellow, and blue pigments depending on their species and environmental conditions. These colors are derived without artificial additives and are distinguished by their depth and variability.

In collaboration with Algal Bio Co., Ltd., we+ design studio developed a new material by blending powdered microalgae with naturally derived resins. This composite is used to fabricate a series of objects, demonstrating how bio-based pigments can be integrated into physical design applications. The project, presented at Milan Design Week 2025, contributes to broader discussions around renewable materials and non-synthetic color systems in contemporary design practice. SO-Colored is a collaborative development project by we+ and Algal Bio Co., Ltd., utilizing algae powder developed by Algal Bio as a key coloring material.

microalgae pigments are explored as a sustainable color source in design

we+ presents SO-Colored at Milan Design Week 2025

SO-Colored examines color potential of microalgae in design

depending on species and conditions, algae can yield red, yellow, or blue tones

the project investigates non-synthetic color systems for contemporary applications

the material process avoids artificial additives in favor of natural expression

color and sustainability converge through algae-based composites

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project info:

name: SO-Colored

designer: we+ | @weplus.jp

collaborator: Algal Bio Co., Ltd.

photographer: Masayuki Hayashi, Takumi Ota, Kanichi Murase

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom