Papyrus in Play

While studying at Central Saint Martins in London, UK, Aya Moug developed her interest in sustainable and environmental design, and that is where the idea, trials and research for ‘the Papyri’ began. The result was Byblos – a material innovation brand that transforms papyrus plants along the Nile shores in Egypt into a hard and soft sustainable biomaterial that is not only historically significant but also incredibly strong and enduring. Its efficiency as a pollution filter and as an economical method for treating water waste make it an environmentally responsible choice. Papyrus offers a natural, local alternative to materials like wood, stone and marble. Additionally, the process of extracting and transforming papyrus into a sustainable biomaterial is relatively inexpensive compared to other materials of this nature.

The Byblos side table from the Shen collection

Moug’s aim with Byblos is to save the papyrus plant from extinction while developing other sustainable materials. She envisions creating a new industry that is socially, culturally and environmentally responsible. “My work is a result of periods of time, inspired by [everything from] the Pharaohs and Egyptian history to contemporary design,” she explains.

One of Moug’s favourite projects is the Shen collection – a collection of tables made from papyrus pulp and designed for the 2023 edition of Downtown Design. She has crafted custom-made furniture pieces for the UAE royal family and has worked on the Formula 1 Royal Tower project.

Currently, Moug and her team are developing their 2024 collection, which promises to bring new innovations in sustainable design. Her dedication to sustainable design and material innovation continues to drive Byblos forward, creating a future where environmentally responsible materials are at the forefront of industrial and consumer applications.

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