WHICH LABEL GOES ON THE DOOR? Navigating the Identity of Materials Designer

This paper explores the intersection of materials design and biodesign. It suggests that these practices should not be viewed as separate disciplines and that each can benefit from understanding the other. It begins by defining materials design and then emphasises the urgent need for a paradigm shift in design, mov- ing from anthropocentric approaches to those centred on regenerative ecologies. The discussion highlights the growing convergence between material design and biodesign, promoting a broader, more inclusive perspective. It demonstrates how biodesigners can benefit from incorporating materials design principles and prac- tices and vice versa. Both disciplines could play a critical role in restoring and regenerating ecosystems by bridging biology, design, and technology. By focus- ing on practices such as biofabrication and DIY-Materials, these designers can create materials that meet human needs while enhancing ecosystem resilience, shifting from a human-centred to a more holistic, multispecies perspective. Draw- ing on over 25 years of experience in materials design, the paper emphasises the importance of combining knowledge from these fields and adopting transdisci- plinary approaches that prioritise materials and materialities for transition. Finally, the paper argues that a clear, integrative perspective is essential for advancing regenerative ecologies and design practices that contribute to planetary health.