Shimber
World’s first bio-based, microplastic-free coating derived from deconstructed wood creating vivid, living surfaces that shift with every angle
Would you like a small piece of future design history — shimmering wood?
Coming to the Aalto University Shop this September: a limited batch of 20 unique, handmade works by Shimber, crafted entirely from wood. Each piece is finished with Shimber’s wood‑based structural colour — a material that makes the surface shimmer and come alive with the light.
A colour is never completely static. It shifts with the viewing angle, the light, the underlying material and the shape of the surface. Shimber doesn’t merely coat a material; it interacts with it. That’s precisely why each outcome is slightly different.
Shimber was born from the idea that colour can be made in an entirely new way. Instead of adding pigment to a surface, the colour is built structurally from wood‑derived nanocellulose. The result is a naturally shimmering, optical surface whose deep hues respond to light and surroundings — without pigments, dyes or plastic.
Founded in 2025, Shimber channels years of materials research into applications for design, art and architecture. The company is developing a new colour language that brings together material surface structures, visual expression and material technology.
The 15 × 15 centimetre wooden sculptures made for the Aalto University Shop are all unique. They are created by combining different techniques developed by Shimber, giving each surface its own character. Subtle variations, tonal differences and the material’s own mark are an essential part of the works.
A batch of 20 pieces will be available at the Aalto University Shop during Helsinki Design Week from 1 September 2026 at 9 am. The price per piece is €150.
Shimber limited edition artworks (a batch of 20 unique designs)
What is Shimber?
Shimber is a Helsinki-based design and materials-innovation company commercialising a new generation of wood‑based surface materials for luxury design, architecture and fashion. Its clients include several international premium and luxury brands, with whom Shimber develops future material solutions and new applications.
The founders — designer Noora Yau, materials scientist Konrad Klockars and fashion designer Anna Semi — began their collaboration in Aalto University’s Shimmering Wood project. The founding team is complemented by CEO Monika Nars, who is responsible for commercialisation, business development and international growth.
Shimber is the first arts and design spin‑off from Aalto University. Its materials and prototypes have been showcased, among others, at Salone del Mobile in Milan, Stockholm Creative Edition, the main exhibition of Helsinki Design Week, and in several editions of Aalto University’s Designs for a Cooler Planet exhibition.
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Aalto University Shop (external link)
Aalto University Shop brings together all Aalto-branded goods, our Aalto ARTS Books publications and our student-designed goods into one space. A mix of cool hoodies, beautifully designed books and our students' gorgeous work including limited-edition prints, glassware and ceramics.
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