"We make it happen," but we recognize the importance of teaming up to achieve great things. That’s why we love collaborating with inspiring and innovative partners—one of them being Broeinest. Starting this month, we’re dedicating a new series to showcasing unique materials from Broeinest’s extensive collection. To kick things off, we sat down with Martine Benjamins, Partner Coordinator at Broeinest, to hear more about their vision, approach to sustainability, and the exciting innovations they're bringing to the design world.
Martine, could you tell us a bit about yourself and your role at Broeinest?
I’m Martine Benjamins, and I’ve been with Broeinest for over 2.5 years. I recently started as Partner Coordinator, where I manage our relationships with current partners and search for new, inspiring brands and materials. It’s an exciting role that allows me to blend creativity with partnership development across all Broeinest locations.
Broeinest is known as a materials hub for interior professionals. How would you describe it in your own words?
Broeinest is much more than a materials library—it’s a creative space where interior professionals can find inspiration, access thousands of samples, and receive personalized advice. It’s also a place for collaboration, whether you're working alone, with colleagues, or meeting with clients. And let’s not forget about our events! We offer workshops, trend tours, and networking opportunities to keep everyone inspired and up-to-date on the latest in design.
How did the concept of Broeinest come to life?
Broeinest started in 2014, thanks to our founding partner Baars & Bloemhoff. They saw a need for a place where designers and makers could connect, especially in a world that was changing rapidly post-financial crisis. The idea was to create a welcoming space for design professionals, where they could easily access the latest materials without the burden of managing their own library. What started in Eindhoven has since grown to Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Utrecht, making Broeinest the largest interior materials library in the Netherlands.
Sustainability is a hot topic in design right now. How does Broeinest contribute to this?
Sustainability is at the core of what we do. We focus on sourcing bio-based, circular, and recycled materials and dive deep into their production processes to ensure they meet the highest environmental standards. It’s not just about what the materials are made of, but also how they’re made and where they come from. This allows us to help architects and designers make more informed, eco-friendly choices. Many of our partners are also working towards certifications like BREEAM, which is becoming increasingly important in sustainable design.
Can you share an example of a material that really excites you right now?
One material I’m really excited about is Polygood panels from The Good Plastic Company. They’re made from 100% recycled plastic, and their new collection taps into the translucent trend using recycled CD covers. The panels come in vibrant colors like neon green and purple and have both glossy and matte finishes. Another exciting product is Unilin’s chipboard, made of 95% recycled wood, which offers a great sustainable alternative to traditional wood products.
How do you see the role of materials evolving in the future of sustainable design and architecture?
Innovation will be crucial in the evolution of sustainable design. Materials once deemed waste are being reimagined as cutting-edge textiles, building materials, and finishes, creating exciting new design possibilities. As the saying goes, "Necessity is the mother of invention," and sustainability has become a pressing necessity. By addressing this need, we can drive innovations that solve various challenges in design. It’s vital that we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible while being responsible stewards of our resources.
What about a project that stands out to you?
One that really sticks with me is Hotel Jakarta in Amsterdam, which was designed using bamboo from our partner Moso. Bamboo is an incredibly sustainable material—it grows quickly, absorbs CO2, and has the strength of tropical hardwood. The design of the hotel is stunning, and bamboo was used throughout, from the floors and walls to the ceilings and furniture. It’s a perfect example of how sustainable materials can be both functional and beautiful.
Finally, how do you see the collaboration with Tchai?
I’m really excited about what we can achieve together! Broeinest can provide Tchai with access to innovative, sustainable materials, while Tchai, as a full-service agency, can introduce these materials to the brands they work with. It’s a synergy that can benefit both sides—bringing more sustainable options into the market while inspiring new design solutions. I’m looking forward to seeing where this partnership takes us!
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