Around 50 members of the Paris Innovation Director's Club (external link) discovered the workshops, collections and research and innovation approaches of the National Manufactures during an special morning on September 17, 2026.
Entitled “The opportunity to maximise the value of innovations by integrating world-class expertise”, this morning session provided an opportunity to discover cross-disciplinary projects that exemplify the fruitful convergence of exceptional expertise and cutting-edge technology.
Hosted by Marc Bayard, Director of Research and Innovation at Mobilier national, Sèvres - Manufacture et Musée nationaux (external link), the delegation was able to visit the Mobilier national and its Research and Creation Workshop (ARC).
Sandra Biaggi, designer and research and innovation officer, then presented the National Manufactories' Laboratory for Sustainable Practices, followed by Frédéric Imbert, technical coordinator of cross-functional projects at the National Manufactories, who highlighted the institution's pioneering approach through a series of iconic innovative works, including the very latest Table L.I.
Representing French Craft, André Fontes, designer and director of innovation Gainerie 91 (external link), and Sylvain Quidant, leader of Cogitech (external link)presented their activities at the crossroads of craftsmanship, creativity, artisanal skills and design.
Dimitri Hlinka (external link), artisan and designer, concluded the event with a presentation of his work and creations, which combine high standards, agility and expertise.
The French Craft Guild was pleased to contribute to this meeting, which echoes a conviction that inspires us: know-how is not only a heritage to preserve, but a resource to imagine the future.
Materials, gestures, processes, tools, tacit knowledge: workshops are areas of experimentation where new responses to contemporary issues can emerge.