Regenerative Design Lab

HEAD: Harald Gründl

Established in 2023, this research facility of the Institute of Design offers students the opportunity to combine design theory & history with individual design practice in group or individual projects (Arts-based Research / Mode 2 Research). The Lab sees itself as a catalyst and an interdisciplinary testing ground for new methods and roles within the field of design. Through the international research network LeNS (Learning Network on Sustainability), the RDL is globally interconnected with LeNS LABS worldwide.

Research collaborations with external and internal partners change each semester, forming an experimental pedagogical framework. Within this framework, knowledge on Regenerative Design, Sustainable Design, Circular Design, and Social Design, as well as strategies for transitioning into a regenerative future, are tested, documented, and disseminated.

Research Collaborations: Weltmuseum Wien, Angewandte Performance Lab, Vienna Design Week, ReGenerativa, Institute of Design Research Vienna, Vitra, MuseumsQuartier Wien.

Current Course Offerings

RDL Exhibitions: Weltmuseum Wien, Vienna Design Week, Weißraum Innsbruck, Angewandte, Campus Väre Dornbirn.

Regenerative Design: The Weltmuseum as Future Laboratory 

Design Revolution Now! – A Designer’s Toolbox for Revolution

A DESIGNER’S TOOLBOX FOR REVOLUTION @ Vienna Design Week

RDL Publications:

Design Revolution Now! A Designer’s Toolbox for Revolution (2025)

Regenerative Design: The Weltmuseum as Future Laboratory (2026)

As of: May 2026