From soil to soil: Mycelium’s journey in architecture
- Kaan Servi
- Jul 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 2
As the world faces environmental threats, particularly climate change, alongside various social and economic challenges, a paradigm shift towards sustainable consumption is emerging. In this context, mycelium presents an innovative solution emphasizing sustainability and recyclability in the construction industry, fostering sustainable urban ecosystems.
Mycelium is gaining traction in architecture and engineering as a highly sustainable and %100 biodegradable material with impressive qualities. It is not only fireproof and resistant to mold and water but can also be harder than concrete at the same weight. Its unique thermal properties allow for effective temperature regulation, and it serves as an excellent sound absorber. The manufacturing process is straightforward: live mycelium is injected into an organic substrate, allowing it to grow into the desired shape. After heat treatment to halt growth, the material hardens and is ready for use. Additionally, the substrate can be derived from various waste sources, making mycelium a versatile and eco-friendly option for construction.
Three case studies illustrate the evolution of mycelium from primitive to innovative, exploring the essence of this remarkable material from soil to soil.
Primitive Tower, Hy-Fi:
A tower constructed from 10,000 bricks stands in the heart of New York as part of the Hy-Fi project, which initially utilizes mycelium as a construction material. By transforming the roots of fungi into a 13-meters tall structure, this project not only creates a temporary installation but also promotes a new vision of recyclability and sustainability. Located in the MoMA courtyard, the cylindrical, porous towers are not only visually striking but also function as a passive cooling system by allowing airflow. Additionally, the tower does not rely on conventional structural reinforcement; instead, the interlocking bricks naturally distribute the load downward and inward, similar to chimneys. As a result, Hy-Fi represents a shift away from traditional construction methods and inspires a new understanding of architecture.
Circular Envelope, Growing Pavilion:
Supported by a timber structure and clad with irregularly shaped mycelium panels, the Growing Pavilion, a project of Company New Heroes and Dutch Design Foundation, presents a new approach to architecture. Unlike the small bricks used in the Hy-Fi project, the Growing Pavilion experiments with large panels made from mycelium, offering a biodegradable alternative for façade materials. Constructed in Eindhoven as part of Dutch Design Week 2019, this project embodies a holistic approach that redefines the principles of sustainable architecture. It demonstrates that sustainability can be visually appealing while also being compostable.
Photo © Eric Melander
Mass I “I AM MSHRM”:
“I AM MSHRM” is an innovative expression of how nature and technology can merge and work in harmony by adhering to the laws of physics. The project consists of 16 modular arches, each constructed from printed recycled plastic frames filled with mycelium panels, which facilitate a rapid assembly process. Through digital fabrication techniques, “I AM MSHRM” minimizes waste produced during manufacturing. Aligning with Bjarke Ingels’ theory of “standardized construction”, this project in collaboration with AM Hub is a tangible example of rapid and easy fabrication and assembly. Consequently, “I AM MSHRM” demonstrates how hand-crafted mycelium can integrate into a rapid mass fabrication process. What sets “I AM MSHRM” apart from other initiatives is that it not only proposes a concept but also illustrates how mycelium can be made an accessible and standardized material within the construction industry.
Photo & render courtesy: Bjarke Ingels Group
Sources:
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