Compound - Designing a Material Future from the Ocean

Founded by industrial designer Vasundhara Gaur and software engineer Simon Beirouti, the project originated from Vasundhara’s thesis research. During her studies, she explored innovative applications for seaweed, focusing on two species of algae: Sargassum and Japanese kelp (Undaria pinnatifida).

Sargassum, which is native to Australia but considered invasive in some parts of the world, was identified for its high tensile strength, making it a promising material for bioplastic alternatives and more sustainable building applications. Vasundhara also investigated Japanese kelp, an invasive species that can disrupt local marine ecosystems by outcompeting native golden kelp (Ecklonia radiata). In areas such as Victoria’s Port Phillip Bay, its spread has been associated with changes to marine biodiversity and ecological imbalance.

Moving between industrial design, engineering and strategy, the studio brings together research into rapidly proliferating invasive seaweed with a locally grounded ecological challenge, aiming to develop solutions at a broader systemic scale.

Using seaweed-derived compounds, the start-up tests and refines various formulations into biopolymer systems, focusing on consistent performance and tactile quality. The material is then shaped, cast and tested into versatile biomaterials, which then can be applied across a range of real-world product applications.

Through this approach, Compound seeks to develop scalable, eco-friendly material systems and products that begin with living ecologies and manifest into tangible design outcomes. Their work investigates applications across interiors, furniture and everyday objects, while contributing to ongoing efforts to restore marine biodiversity through research and material innovation.

"We move between industrial design, engineering and strategy to shape tools, objects and experiences that feel lighter on the planet and clearer in everyday life."

The team is driven by a shared passion for the environment and a vision to contribute to broader, positive industrial change. Individually, Vasundhara Gaur’s practice is grounded in product design, with a focus on circular systems within alternative economies. Her work is informed by human-centred and more-than-human approaches to systems thinking, with an emphasis on sustainability, inclusivity and adaptability, supporting both people and the wider ecological context.

Simon Beirouti explores how Compound can integrate nature and technology in innovative ways. His perspective is shaped by urgent global challenges such as climate change and food security, with a focus on developing solutions that contribute to a more resilient future. His work centres around sustainability and on designing for the world, with future generations in mind.

"Building with nature in mind and systems in view."

The founders describe Compound as a long-term initiative at the intersection of marine conservation, material innovation and regenerative design, focused on developing seaweed-based alternatives for more sustainable industries. By harnessing the ecological and mechanical properties of seaweed, Vasundhara Gaur and Simon Beirouti aim to contribute to a shift towards low-impact, circular material systems that support both environmental restoration and industrial transformation.

Positioned at the forefront of seaweed-based innovation in Australia, Compound continues to build towards a future where marine ecosystems actively power a circular, climate-positive economy.

If you're interested in learning more about Compound or exploring a potential collaboration, visit their website to discover upcoming projects, ongoing research and the vision driving their work.

PROJECT DETAILS
Location: Melbourne, VIC
Team: Vasundhara Gaur and Simon Beirouti 
Photography: Compound, Taïma Matthes