Published: 30 May 2025
School of Form x Protan. A Collection of Clothing and Accessories Made from Roofing Membranes
Author: Magdalena Miszewska
Forget traditional fabric—think roofing membrane. This project was more than just a conventional fashion design assignment; it was an experiment with form and function. School of Form students explored a material typically associated with construction sites. Discover the creative outcomes of our collaboration with Protan Polska, the Polish branch of Protan, a global leader in membrane technology.
A new material, new possibilities
The design process began in an unexpected place: a roofing workshop. Students visited the Protan training center in Pabianice, where they discovered the properties of roofing membranes and learned various joining techniques. Their task was to design wearable or portable items. The ideas ranged widely, featuring everything from functional backpacks and handbags to a pistol holster, along with avant-garde fashion pieces.
Explore the student projects
Oliwia Kaczmarek designed a lightweight backpack that transforms into a sitting mat. Although she found working with the roofing membrane quite challenging, it ultimately became a rewarding experience.
At first, I had no idea how to work with this material—how to cut it, fold it, and connect the parts. The membranes felt stiff and inflexible. It wasn’t until the workshops in Pabianice that I discovered how they could change shape and bond when heated. Working with unfamiliar tools and experimenting with the material turned out to be an eye-opening experience. The biggest challenge was achieving the desired form and ensuring that all the elements fit together, allowing the folded membrane to close into a backpack. This project boosted my confidence. I developed my own concept from scratch within a tight deadline, and then presented the final result to an external company. I think it enhanced my self-belief. It was a truly rewarding time.
Oliwia Kaczmarek
Product design student
From rooftop to runway: A fashion show in a factory
The project culminated in a fashion show held at Protan’s production facility in Stęszew, the very location where the membranes are made. The event was part of the company’s 25th anniversary celebrations.
We wanted to show that technical materials, such as Protan roofing membranes, can be not only functional but also creatively inspiring. The fashion show was more than just a spectacular event; it was a serious initiative that highlighted creative approaches to upcycling and the importance of sustainability within the construction industry. The talented and bold School of Form students brought incredible energy and vision to the project, while we provided the necessary tools to help bring that vision to life.
Michał Miąsek
Managing Director, Protan Polska
View the photos form the runway show
Designing outside the box
This collection of garments and accessories made from roofing membranes was created during our annual Biznes course, a collaboration between the School of Form and various companies across different industries. The classes, led by Dr Iga Węglińska and Dr Piotr Szaradowski, featured hands-on workshops that allowed for material experimentation. Working with an industrial material and a partner from the construction sector challenged students to think differently and explore unconventional methods. Experiences like this are a key part of the School of Form curriculum, as they equip future designers with essential skills they need to work in diverse professional environments.Academic team
Iga Węglińska, Ph.D.
Fashion designer