Reefine
Zhong-Wei Lin | Royal College of Art
Reefine uses discarded oyster shells as the main material for a modular artificial reef that supports coral regeneration. The structure minimises disruption to water flow and reduces the risk of sediments covering coral larvae. Oyster shells are not only biologically compatible with coral, but also have a porous structure that facilitates coral attachment and provides a habitat for marine life.
Award winner 2025 in the category »Nachwuchs«»Coral reefs are in serious danger. Ambitious climate protection measures are required to preserve them. However, restoration measures are also required. Zhong-Wie Lin's impressive work at the Royal College of Art in London offers one possible solution. In 'Reefine', fragments of healthy coral are attached to a structure made of oyster shells. Once they have grown, this structure can be reintegrated into the reefs.«
Dr. Bettina Rechenberg
Three questions for Zhong-Wei Lin
How did the idea for "Reefine" first come about?
My home country, Taiwan, is surrounded by the ocean, where coral conservation is an urgent issue. Through an in-depth interview with the Delta Electronics Foundation, I mapped Taiwan’s coral restoration process and identified issues in current tiles, such as limited stability and compatibility. These insights inspired me to explore how design could offer a new solution for ecological restoration.
Were there any breakthrough moments in the course of development? What were the biggest obstacles you faced?
My highlight was transforming the idea of minimal surface geometry into a real coral restoration system. It was exciting to see a concept grow from sketches to physical prototypes. The toughest challenge was balancing beauty, cost, and sustainability through local production. Each obstacle deepened my understanding of responsible design.
What are the next steps for your project as you look to the future?
I am refining the first prototype of Reefine, using computational simulations to study its relationship with coral growth. Next, I plan to collaborate with the foundation or local government for ocean testing. I aim for the design to unite ecology and aesthetics, encouraging people to rethink design’s role in natural restoration.
