Gwëmon invents a new eco-designed material based on algae

Founded in 2024 by Hugo Kerbrat, the start-up Gwëmon offers a new material based on brown algae, produced using low-tech methods and with a view to preserving local algae resources. By joining the ENSTARTUPS incubator (Brest campus), Hugo benefits from access to the Mechanics Research Center to carry out tests on the materials he has created, as well as from a wealth of advice to help him develop his project.

Can you tell us about Gwëmon ?

Hugo Kerbrat: Gwëmon is a start-up company based in Brittany that has developed an agglomerate made from brown algae, without the use of synthetic glue, and produced using a low-tech manufacturing process, which means it consumes very little energy. The material developed by Gwëmon offers a unique, environmentally friendly solution for the design and furnishing sectors, with the aim of contributing to the ecological transition of these sectors.

How did it all start ? Where did the idea come from ?

The idea came to me in 2023, during my DNMADE (National Diploma in Art and Design) Bachelor’s Degree specializing in objects at the Lycée Vauban in Brest. In order to validate my third year, I had to develop an object design project. I quickly became interested in eco-friendly materials and Brittany-based companies such as Adaozan, which recycles apple pomace, and Malàkio, which recycles seashells, because each of them brings an innovative and unique solution to design and furnishing. I also wanted to develop my own environmentally friendly material using a local resource.

Looking for materials in my local area, I quickly turned to algae, which can be found in large quantities along the coast of Finistère. I then spent 6 months researching and developing in my parents’ garage, during which time I developed a process for agglomerating algae particles using a natural binder, also derived from algae.

Where are you today with your project ?

The Gwëmon entrepreneurial adventure began in September 2024. The company’s first professional projects were for a gourmet restaurant and a cosmetics manufacturer. Our first decorative products are available on the website and in 4 partner boutiques. Today, the production workshop is up and running, and is improving month by month, as are the products and the technical characteristics of the material itself.

Gwëmon meets a wide range of needs, from making bespoke products (jewelry items, decorative items, displays for food products, etc.) right through to furnishing solutions for professionals.

How has the ENSTARTUPS incubator helped you ?

For Gwëmon, the biggest advantage of being incubated at ENSTARTUPS is the opportunity to benefit from the opinions and advice of materials experts and the ability to conduct technical trials with ease. Today, this means that we can significantly improve the technical characteristics of the material in order to diversify its uses and have the greatest positive impact on the targeted sectors.

The business development support is also very interesting. Having external advice from mentors at ENSTA, and guidance on certain decisions and aspects, allows me to question myself and explore avenues of development that I hadn’t thought of before.

What are your plans for Gwëmon ?

By the end of 2025, the goal is to offer custom-made furnishing solutions (panels, furniture fronts and decorative items) and decorative objects (lamps, coat hooks, furniture knobs, etc.) for interior design professionals, in order to provide environmentally friendly solutions and reduce the ecological impact of these sectors. Then, by 2027, to have a range of materials made from algae of different species, as well as a semi-artisanal production line to meet the needs of large-scale interior design projects.