Exploration never goes out of style, but it does change course. Designers are looking at novel and reusable materials such as algae and ocean debris to bring less harm to the environment.

1 Rush Chair
Christopher Jenner’s limited edition chair was rendered by computer but handwoven in a rush weave by Felicity Irons, one of the last remaining masters of the art. galleryfumi.com

2 The Bic Cristal Structure
As part of a symposium on spatial structures, international firm AAU Anastas created a mesmerizing canopy using 10,000 Bic pens. aauanastas.com

3 Overgrown
A brass chandelier is coated with minerals that grow slowly, over time. It is one in a series by Mark Sturkenboom, who is fascinated by what would happen to the world after an apocalyptic natural disaster. marksturkenboom.com

4 Mmaterial
New York designer Fernando Mastrangelo’s cement drums are cast in such pale hues as blush pink and slate blue. An exhibition of his latest is on view at The New gallery in L.A. until November 30. m-material.com

5 AdidasxPARLEY for the Oceans
Adidas’s 3-D-printed Ocean Plastic shoe is made from discarded fishing nets and ocean trash. adidas-group.com

6 Edible Water Bottle
Iceland design student Ari Jónsson’s alternative to making water bottles with plastic is to make them with agar, a biodegradable powder made from edible red algae.