FarmLab in Kapfenstein has been awarded first prize in the category Crafts at the 66th Innovation Award of the Steirisches Vulkanland. The award ceremony took place at Fachschule Schloss Stein in Fehring, a location often described as a regional centre of craftsmanship within the Vulkanland.

With its work at the intersection of traditional techniques and contemporary fabrication methods, FarmLab convinced the jury with an innovatively interpreted approach to craft. The awarded practice combines material knowledge rooted in heritage with experimental applications of digital tools.

Two projects were presented as examples of this approach: a Yakisugi façade, based on the traditional Japanese method of charring timber to increase durability and weather resistance, and 3D-printed Raku ceramics, where additive manufacturing is combined with a centuries-old firing technique.

When receiving the award, Martin Gutmann emphasised the continuity between past and present innovation, stating:

“Every tradition was once an innovation.”

The Innovation Award, now in its 66th edition, reflects the sustained culture of entrepreneurship and experimentation in the Steirisches Vulkanland region, which has evolved from a former border area into a recognised future-oriented innovation space.