When design meets science,
it’s a beautiful thing.
what for is a design studio that bridges material science and product craft. Every project has to earn it's place for people and the planet.
Some select projects…
Algae Plastic Records
Records are back, but vinyl as a material is one of the worst plastics for the planet. Surging demand has created a manufacturing bottleneck that conventional supply chains can't solve.
Algae-based polyurethanes from Checkerspot Inc. replace petroleum with algae oil, using an entirely different supply chain than conventional plastics. We identified records as a standout application for this material — charismatic enough to prove what algae plastic can do. We developed the manufacturing process, produced dozens of playable records with up to 75% bio-based content, and delivered them to partners including some of the biggest names in music.
Laser Protective Eyewear
As cheap, powerful handheld lasers proliferate, pilots face growing risk from "laser dazzle" during takeoff and landing. Cambium Biomaterials asked what for to turn their laser-blocking lens technology into protective eyewear for aviation using frames made from domestically sourced biomaterials.
We took the project from proof-of-concept prototypes through validation and even designed production-ready tooling, delivering a frame that's both functional and manufacturable in the U.S. We partnered with MTRL Objects for industrial design and tapped our network for additional support with fabrication, prototyping and engineering.
Checkerspot Pollinator Kit
Beyond identifying individual applications, we proposed making this biomaterial genuinely accessible to designers, product developers, and DIY creators. The result: an award-winning material kit that gets more creatives working with algae-based polyurethane and creates a channel for bottom-up innovation.
Everything about this kit is thoughtfully considered to make it as simple and approachable as possible to ensure customer success. We developed a packaging system to solve the key problems we identified with urethanes being inherently messy and requiring precise mixing and measurement. The instructions are beautifully illustrated and the packaging is designed for maximum recyclability to reinforce Checkerspot's brand built on sustainability.
The Studio Knife
A precision craft knife designed for makers who demand more than flimsy handles and dull blades. Born from years of running prototyping workshops, We set out to solve the frustrations of traditional X-acto knives, scalpels, and snap-off blades.
It pairs British surgical steel with a CNC-machined brass or stainless steel handle made in California. A tool-free slide mechanism and magnetic blade keeper make blade swaps fast, and the weight and ergonomics are tuned for delicate detail work and heavy cuts alike.
Made in the USA, assembled by hand in Oakland, and built to last a lifetime.
About
what for is a small design consultancy focused on sustainable product development and climate-positive technologies. The team is founder and design leader Mitch Heinrich, backed by a network of professionals built over twenty years of experience.
Contact
what for is` on pause while the focus is on building Copper’s product and brand. That said, Mitch occasionally takes on advisory and consulting projects with teams who share his values.