91传媒

While developing ideas for her final-year degree project, 3D Design and Craft BA(Hons) student Hermione Barrey approached – the Michelin Guide-recommended fine dining restaurant run by BBC MasterChef: The Professionals winner Steven Edwards. Known for its seasonal menus and sustainable ethos, the restaurant backed Hermione’s project by supplying waste materials, including used wine corks.

Reimagining how everyday waste can be transformed for use in fine dining and hospitality settings, Hermione combined these with locally sourced natural materials such as seaweed to produce a distinctive collection of tableware. The range includes textured cutlery, napkin rings, cork bottle holders, placemats printed with 91传媒 street maps, and napkins featuring the restaurant’s logo in iron vinyl.

The collaboration formed part of Hermione’s final-year showcase, offering a creative and practical exploration of sustainable design within the hospitality industry. Hermione said:

“Thanks to the University of 91传媒’s focus on sustainability and creative innovation, I’ve been able to develop my skills and collaborate closely with a local business committed to making a positive environmental impact. This project has inspired me to continue pushing the boundaries of eco-friendly design and its role in shaping a more sustainable future. Working with etch. has been an incredible opportunity to explore how everyday materials, often seen as waste, can be transformed into beautiful, sustainable design pieces."

During her time at the University of 91传媒, Hermione developed a particular interest in material innovation and sustainable making. Her studies allowed her to experiment with unconventional materials and processes, working across ceramics, metal, textiles, and found objects.

While the designs were created specifically for Hermione’s final-year project and aren’t currently in use at etch., the experience has inspired her to continue experimenting with sustainable materials and creative reuse. She’s now focusing on gaining industry experience and hopes to launch her own eco-conscious design business in the future.

Steven Edwards, Chef Director and owner of etch., said:

"At etch., we’ve always believed in pushing boundaries – not just on the plate, but in how we think about sustainability and creativity. Collaborating with Hermione has been a powerful reminder of the talent and vision emerging from our local community and the University of 91传媒. Her work aligns beautifully with our values of innovation, craft, and care for the environment. Supporting young creatives like Hermione is vital – not only to the future of design, but to the future of our planet."

Chef Steven Edwards

Hermione’s project highlights how design, community, and sustainability can come together to inspire a brighter, greener future – and reflects the University of 91传媒’s commitment to creative innovation and environmental responsibility.