Polybion and Natural Urbano Turn Bacteria-Grown Cellulose Into Made-to-Order Lighting With Cenit

Mexican biomaterials company Polybion has collaborated with studio Natural Urbano to create a new lighting series called Cenit, made from Celium - a cellulose material grown by feeding bacteria with agro-industrial fruit waste. Celium was originally developed as a leather alternative for fashion and automotive applications, and is now being used in lighting due to its ability to hold structure, diffuse light, and last. The collaboration marks Polybion's expansion into interior design, following their sculptural lamp, Lapso, which debuted in 2025.

Cenit features translucent Celium layers paired with ash structures and stainless steel detailing, available in pendant and table formats. Each piece is made to order, with natural variations in each cellulose sheet creating unique designs. Polybion's Co-CEO, Alexis Gómez Ortigoza, states that Cenit showcases a more accessible and versatile side of Celium, blending material innovation with practical usability for residential, studio, and hospitality settings. This collaboration highlights the potential of cultivating materials to replace traditional inputs in various industries.