CDW2025
Chris Lefteri
workbench | showroom
Chris Lefteri
Materials Expert, Author, Consultant, Speaker and Industrial Designer. Recognized throughout the world as a leading authority on materials and their application in design, Chris Lefteri is one of the most instrumental materials experts working in his field. For over a decade his studio work and publications have been pivotal in the way designers and the materials industry consider materials. In 2001 he published the first of eight books on materials and the application in design, which have been translated into six languages. These books have led the change in the way designers view and use materials.
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Chris Lefteri Materials-led Innovation in Design
Chris Lefteri is a globally renowned expert in materials and their applications in design. He is known for his materials-led approach, bridging the gap between the material industries and the design community. His pioneering work has revolutionised the way designers think about and utilise materials, making him a leading figure in the industry.
Redefining Material-led Design in the Materials Industry
Chris Lefteri’s work in workspace design and material innovation has been going on for over a decade. He thoughtfully combines material swatches and CMF samples, reimagining how surfaces like scratched metal surfaces and blue textured surfaces can be used creatively.
Collaborations with Top Brands
Chris Lefteri Design has studios in London and Seoul and works with companies like Lenovo, Samsung, Burberry, and Dupont. As a material-led design studio bridging the gap between the material industries and the design community, these projects often involve CMF strategy and innovative designs, such as wristbands, rectangular textured smartphone prototypes, and more bespoke pieces.
Transformative Design Solutions
His projects feature a wide range of materials from transparent objects with horizontal ridges to textiles and textured surfaces in different finishes. This includes work on products such as keychains, devices, and clips, all of which are finished with precision craftsmanship.
Books that Influence Design Thinking
Chris Lefteri’s eight books have led the way in changing how designers interact with materials. Translated into six languages, his early books changed the global perspective on integrating materials into design. Notable titles include Making It, now a design resource across industries and academia.
His expertise goes beyond the studio; his influence reaches aspiring and professional designers through his writings on CMF samples displayed on textured surfaces and raised circular and organic patterns.
Expertise in Advanced Materials, Material Swatches and CMF
At the heart of Chris Lefteri’s design philosophy is the beautiful use of circular and organic shapes, applied to different surfaces. His portfolio shows the seamless integration of CMF red rectangular transparent objects into functional yet beautiful designs.
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Key Principles of his Methodology
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Practical application of metal surfaces with circular patterns
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Use of raised circular and textured surfaces to add depth and definition* Collaboration with material industries to stay ahead of CMF trends
Through his work and projects, clients and collaborators can access the latest materials, the newest developments in material innovation and CMF.
This ensures every project not only meets but exceeds client expectations for innovative design solutions, as seen in projects for Eastman.
Global Recognition and Ongoing Influence
Chris Lefteri’s legacy is to instil a materials-first approach, to encourage designers to experiment and innovate with confidence. His work extends beyond design, bridging academic research and practical application to influence material-driven designs worldwide.
At Workbench, we are lucky to work with pioneers like Chris Lefteri. His commitment to bridging material industries and design resonates with our values of quality and innovation.
As a studio bridging the gap between the material industries and the design community, we strive to facilitate collaboration and innovation in every project.
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Chris Lefteri at Clerkenwell Design Week 2025
We were delighted to have Chris Lefteri at Workbench as a guest for Clerkenwell Design Week in May 2025. Renowned for his material-led approach to design, Chris talked about the future of craftsmanship.
This partnership reflects our shared vision of pushing the boundaries and redefining the applications of materials.
Learn More About Clerkenwell Design Week
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Get Inspired Today
Take inspiration from Chris Lefteri’s material-led design to inspire your work. Whether you are a workspace designer, architect or product innovator, Workbench works with leaders like Chris to turn concepts into reality.
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