Resting Reef

Resting Reef is a death care startup that redefines how we honour loved ones through an environmentally conscious memorial service. Founded by graduates from the Royal College of Art and Imperial College London, Aura Murillo and Louise Skajem, the sustainable venture transforms cremated ashes into living ocean reefs that regenerate marine ecosystems. By turning loss into life, Resting Reef aims to tackle several issues at once: redefine traditions with an ocean “cemetery” that restores marine biodiversity, sequesters carbon and prevents coastal erosion—creating a lasting tribute that benefits our oceans and future generations. The team at Resting Reef has garnered significant recognition, including winning five Innovate UK grants, the Arts Foundation Fellowship Award, a D&AD Pencil for Creative Excellence and the Seoul Design Award. Resting Reef has been featured in Fast Company, Wallpaper, The Telegraph, and showcased at events like the London Design Biennale and Dutch Design Week.