How Dubai-Based ARDH Collective is Transforming Date Seeds into Sustainable Materials
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In the world of sustainable design, ARDH Collective stands out as a beacon of creativity and impact. Founded by siblings Alyina and Alhaan Ahmed, the Dubai-based startup is rewriting the construction and F&B landscape with eco-conscious materials that merge function, beauty and environmental responsibility. With backgrounds rooted in architecture and product design, the founders are on a mission to push the boundaries of what's possible with sustainable materials.
Alhaan, with his background in product design, strategy and innovation, added, “We focus on problem-solving. Our goal is to create materials that are not just sustainable but also functional, durable and beautiful.” This approach led to the development of their flagship products, such as Dateform, a unique material crafted from date seeds. As Alhaan described, “Dateform is the world's first date seed-based solid surface material. Dateform enables the food and beverage industry to look at sustainability through a different angle and lens.” This advancement also offers businesses a way to elevate their space with an eco-conscious edge.
Alyina, an architect, shared, “Our interest in sustainability started from a young age. Our mom instilled it in us and our dad’s work in the industry exposed us to forward-thinking design and construction practices." This exposure, coupled with their global upbringing, fuelled their passion for creating solutions that align with both design and environmental values.
In the F&B industry, Dateform presents endless possibilities. From countertops to furniture, this durable material is designed to withstand daily wear and tear while also serving as a conversation starter. Alyina added, "We’re able to dye Dateform using natural elements like turmeric, beetroot and chilli to create custom colours. This adds a unique and personal touch for clients who want sustainability without compromising on design."
The potential of Dateform doesn’t stop there. Alhaan, a product designer, highlighted, “We’ve been able to expand Dateform beyond its original vision, creating customised solutions for the hospitality sector. It’s more than just a product; it’s about bringing people closer to nature through design.”
ARDH Collective is not just transforming interiors; they're reshaping how we think about consumption with their coffee alternative, Datebrew. Made from date seeds, Datebrew is a caffeine-free drink that mimics the rich flavours of Arabic coffee but without the caffeine. Alhaan explained, “Datebrew offers a healthier option for coffee lovers who are cutting back on caffeine but still want a flavourful, nutrient-rich beverage.” This product is already making waves in cafes across the UAE and has the potential to disrupt the global coffee market. “It’s a light Arabic coffee flavour with a range of health benefits and it’s gaining popularity across café in the UAE,” said Alhaan. The fusion of flavour and sustainability has been well-received by those seeking a healthier, more eco-friendly alternative to traditional beverages.
Another milestone for ARDH Collective is their work with Dunecrete, a concrete alternative made from desert sand that can be 3D printed into custom shapes. Alyina shared, "Dunecrete has the potential to redefine construction practices, particularly in the F&B sector, where custom eco-friendly design pieces like tables and kiosks can be made." As the team tests new ways to dye the material, the possibilities for bespoke, eco-friendly furniture in restaurants and hotels continue to grow. “We can 3D print Dunecrete into custom furniture and fixtures. It's a low-carbon, durable material, perfect for the F&B industry,” said Alyina. This technology allows restaurants and cafes to design bespoke tables, chairs and entire spaces, all with a reduced environmental footprint. With Dunecrete, sustainability isn't just a concept—it's a tangible, customisable solution.
For those in the F&B industry, ARDH Collective’s products offer an exciting opportunity to incorporate sustainability into every aspect of design—from materials to menus. Whether it's through Dateform’s unique surfaces, Datebrew’s caffeine-free beverages, or Dunecrete’s state-of-the-art 3D-printed pieces, the company is pushing the boundaries of what's possible when it comes to sustainable design.
To explore more about ARDH Collective’s initiatives and hear their full story, listen to the podcast episode and discover how sustainability is shaping the future of F&B design and beyond. Tune in now.