Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) and Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) are excited to announce the launch of the Regeneration Studio, marking the latest phase in their multiyear research partnership. This collaboration focuses on the intersection of nature, art, design, and the future of mobility.
The partnership explores biological structures, such as insect wings and seed pods, and investigates entire ecosystems to inspire innovation that benefits both the environment and technology. The concept of regeneration, where creativity drives progress while respecting the planet’s limits, leads to advanced design solutions aimed at restoring humanity’s relationship with living systems.
Entering its fifth year in 2024–25, the partnership brings together RISD faculty and student researchers with designers from Hyundai Motor, Genesis, and Kia. Together, they will focus on the theme of Future Structures. The Regeneration Studio, led by a scientific team at RISD’s Edna W. Lawrence Nature Lab, will explore new concepts in bio-innovation. The year-long program includes a fall biomimicry seminar, spring studio courses, and extended summer research, offering fellowships and intensive week-long sessions for Hyundai Motor Group designers and engineers.
“RISD’s collaboration with Hyundai Motor Group demonstrates our shared commitment to sustainability, leveraging the expertise and creativity of students, faculty, and staff,” said RISD President Crystal Williams. “Through this work, we are reimagining how we move through space, use materials, and conceive structures in ways that support a thriving ecological system. We’re excited to continue this exploration with Hyundai Motor Group and appreciate their ongoing investment in this initiative.”
The Regeneration Studio takes an innovative approach, blending scientific research with creative studio practices. Unlike traditional sponsorships, this partnership aims to deliver breakthroughs through unique methodologies. From September 2024 through May 2025, studio courses such as The Language of Design in Nature: From Form to Regeneration and design studios on biodesign and regenerative design for future structures will engage directly with natural systems to rethink mobility’s future.
In the summer, Hyundai Motor Group designers and engineers will participate in two five-day campus sessions, and selected Sustainability Fellows will spend eight weeks developing regenerative strategies and structural innovations within the Nature Lab.
“RISD’s deep inquiries produce actionable results that align with both design principles and respect for the world,” said RISD Provost Touba Ghadessi. “Our partnership with Hyundai Motor Group fosters a dialogue where scientists, designers, and engineers study biomimicry, regenerative practices, and artificial intelligence to envision humans and the planet as a unified system. This collaboration views the future of mobility as a new paradigm, where practical approaches, environmental justice, and creative practices work in harmony.”
The Regeneration Studio builds on the collaborative research platform initiated in 2019 by RISD’s Strategic Partnerships and the Nature Lab. Since its inception, RISD faculty and Nature Lab researchers have guided students through a range of inquiries, with ongoing feedback from Hyundai Motor Group designers.
For high-resolution images, videos, and other materials related to the project, please visit here.
