Rules & Regulations
General
● Handle all materials with care
● Follow instructions from the MLI team at all times
Strictly not allowed
● Photography or videography inside the archive
● Removing materials from the space
● Intentional breaking, tearing, or damaging of materials
● Food or drinks inside the archive or workspace
Penalties
● Any damage or loss will be charged to the visitor based on material value and extent of damage
● Repeated violations may result in permanent termination of access
● MLI reserves the right to refuse or revoke access at its discretion
Workspace rules
● Clean up after use and return materials to designated places
● Use tools responsibly and report any issues immediately
● Dress code: closed footwear mandatory, hair neatly tied, no loose clothing, overalls preferred
● Visitors not complying with the dress code will not be permitted entry into the workspace
FAQs — Rules & Regulations
What happens if I accidentally damage something?
Accidental damage is assessed by the MLI team. A charge will be applied based on the material’s value and the extent of the damage. Willful damage is treated more seriously and may result in access being permanently revoked.
Why is photography not allowed?
The archive contains original curation, sourcing relationships, and research that represents MLI’s intellectual work. Photography restrictions protect this.
Can I bring a guest or colleague who isn’t a subscriber?
Guests must either hold their own access pass or be booked in as part of a group or workshop session. Unregistered visitors are not permitted.
What if I forget to follow the dress code?
The team will inform you at entry. If you are unable to meet the dress code requirement, workspace access will not be granted for that visit. Archive-only access may still be possible at the team’s discretion.
Are the rules different for institutional or workshop visitors?
Core rules apply to all visitors. Workshop groups are briefed at the start of their session by the MLI facilitator.
1. Individual Access
What’s included
● Entry to the Material Archive during open hours
● Self-guided exploration of materials
● Access to basic information and categorization system
● Access to a curated library, audio/video resources
● Access to MLI’s on-ground work over the years
● Refreshment will be provided
Who is this for Students, designers, researchers, and curious individuals who want to observe, browse, and learn about materials at their own pace.
Pricing
Format Archive Only
Day Pass ₹500
Monthly (4 visits) ₹2,000
Booking & Access
● Day passes can be booked 10 days in advance via link in website
● Monthly, quarterly, and annual subscribers get priority booking
● Open hours: Monday to Saturday, 11am to 5pm
● Maximum 5 visitors allowed per day, book early to secure your slot
Optional Add-on
● Workspace Access (Extra Charge)
○ Hands-on interaction with materials
○ Use of tools and work surfaces
○ Ability to test, combine, and explore materials deeper
Access to waste materials / regenerative materials
Access Format
● Monthly / Quarterly / Annual subscription
● Limited number of visits
Cancellation & Refunds
● Day passes: non-refundable but visits can be rescheduled within the same month
● Monthly plans: non-refundable but visits can be rescheduled within the same month
● Quarterly/Annual: no refunds after purchase
FAQs
Can I visit without a subscription?
Yes. Day passes are available for archive-only (₹500) and archive + workspace (₹3,000) access. No prior commitment is needed, but advance reservation is recommended as slots are limited.
What is the difference between archive access and workspace access?
Archive access is for viewing, reading, and understanding materials. Workspace access adds hands-on experimentation, you can touch, test, combine, and work with materials using the tools and surfaces provided.
Do unused visits roll over?
Unused visits do not roll over for any plan. Annual subscribers receive 50 visits per year; these also do not carry forward to the following year.
What if I need to cancel at the last minute?
Please inform us at least 1 week before your scheduled visit. Late cancellations on monthly/quarterly plans count as a used visit.
Is prior knowledge required?
None at all. The archive is designed to be accessible at every level, from first-time visitors to experienced material researchers.
Are food and drinks allowed inside?
Tea, coffee, and snacks are provided in the common/reception area. Food and drinks are not permitted inside the archive or workspace.
1.2. Individual Access + Workspace
What’s included
Everything in Individual Access, plus:
● Hands-on interaction with materials
● Use of tools and work surfaces
● Ability to test, combine, and explore materials in depth
● Access to waste and regenerative materials
Who is this for Designers, makers, researchers, and practitioners who want to go beyond observation and actively work with materials.
Pricing
Format Price
Day Pass ₹3,000
Monthly (4 visits) ₹10,000
Dress Code Closed footwear is mandatory. Hair must be neatly tied. No loose clothing. Overalls are preferred. Visitors not meeting the dress code will not be permitted into the workspace. No exceptions.
Booking & Access
● Day passes can be booked 15 days in advance via link in website
● Monthly, quarterly, and annual subscribers get priority booking
● Open hours: Monday to Saturday, 11am to 5pm
● Maximum 5 visitors allowed per day, book early to secure your slot
Cancellation & Refunds
● Day passes: non-refundable but visits can be rescheduled within the same month
● Monthly plans: non-refundable but visits can be rescheduled within the same month
● Quarterly/Annual: no refunds after purchase
FAQs
How is this different from Individual Access?
Individual Access is observation and study where you browse and understand materials. The Workspace tier adds active experimentation. You can touch, test, combine, and physically work with materials using tools and space provided.
What tools and equipment are available?
You will be provided with basis tools, and table top tools like cutters, measuring tools, surface materials, etc. The team can guide you on what’s available when you book.
Can I bring my own materials to work with?
Yes, subject to prior approval from the team.
What waste and regenerative materials are available?
The selection varies based on what MLI has sourced and collected at any given time. Enquire about current availability when booking.
What if I don’t meet the dress code on arrival?
Workspace entry will be denied for that visit. Archive-only access may still be possible at the team’s discretion. No refund will be issued for the workspace component.
Is the workspace available for group use?
The workspace accommodates a maximum of 6 people at a time. For facilitated group sessions, consider the Guided Workshop format.