FibreLab & HWFI CDT Partner on a New Space for Innovation in East London - The Loop Lab
We’re thrilled to announce that FibreLab has officially partnered with the Hackney Wick & Fish Island Community Development Trust (HWFI CDT) to lead the next chapter of circular innovation at The Loop Lab—East London’s pioneering circular economy hub.
With the support of HWFI CDT, we’ve been given the keys to a larger, rent-free studio space in the heart of Fish Island. This generous backing gives us the freedom to scale our textile recycling operations, deepen our commitment to community-led impact and experiment with new circular systems in practice.
Image: FibreLab team prepares to relocate the studio
Here’s what’s coming:
🌀 Expanded Textile Recycling Capabilities
Our new studio will house semi-industrial machinery, including shredding and fibre opening machines, and lab-scale carding, spinning and weaving equipment, allowing us to process more waste locally and trial the development of new materials right here in East London.
🛠️ Workshops, Skill Shares & Open Studios
We’ll be expanding our workshop series, with sessions led by both the FibreLab team and guest hosts, exploring everything from repair and biomaterials to upcycling and circular design. The space will also host regular Open Studio days for local makers and community members to get hands-on.
🛍️ A New Community-Facing Retail Offer
As part of our mission to bridge the gap between circular production and public awareness, we’re also launching a retail space showcasing designers who create products from waste. It’s an opportunity to bring together local businesses, residents, and creatives—all connected by the power of circularity.
Image: Artist Nic Brittin teaches a guest workshop
“The Loop Lab is an incredible opportunity for us to expand the impact we deliver locally. It allows us to deepen our commitment to circular systems, connect with our community through making and demonstrate how waste can be reimagined as a resource.”
— Kaela Katz, Founder of FibreLab
"We couldn’t have found a more committed partner who understands East London’s spirit and can build meaningful connections with people locally. This partnership is about creating a lasting impact through creativity, local engagement, and circular innovation. I look forward to working with FibreLab to build on our success, refine our approach, and take our impact to the next level.”
– Patrick Scally, Executive Director, HWFI CDT
Image: FibreLab team outside their studio from left to right, Claudia, Kae and Mooka
This partnership is about more than just space—it’s about redefining how materials, people, and local economies connect. We're incredibly proud to continue to build on this legacy and help shape what comes next for circular systems in East London.
We’ll be sharing more soon, so stay tuned for upcoming events, workshops and ways to get involved.