Living systems in architecture.
The concept of harnessing microalgae benefits using bioreactors is now half a century old. Our solution is to investigate ways in which bioreactor systems can be integrated seamlessly within the daily architectural environment. We subscribe to the philosophy of agritecture, which collapses built systems and modern technology with permacultures and agroecologies. We contribute tech-infused habitats to support the survival of algae species within the formations and networks of urban environments.
Our algae photobioreactor designs seamlessly find place within various architectural contexts. Our projects inject spaces with microalgae’s benefits of carbon sequestration, biomass production, and wastewater cleansing, all while revitalizing and stimulating a symbiotic relationship with this beautiful species.
Speculative applications of photobioreactor tubing in furniture, roofs, and outdoor spaces. Renders produced by in-house architects.
Nighttime render of Biofacade Systems, a breahing wall made of modular photobioreactors.
It is our goal to design systems that will not only aid in carbon sequestration but will also help ease the impact of plastic pollution by offering healthy material alternatives. The ingenuity of our work lies in the fact that we support the proliferation and protection of indigenous knowledge by combining it with a simple photobioreactor system. Traditionally the dry plants (straw) used in knitting are made up of cellulose tubing that does not serve the function of circulating water. In our design, the straws are replaced by tubing of various dimensions which will circulate water that is filled with Genetically Modified Algae. This way, we will hit multiple goals:
Goals
(1) Helping indigenous communities communicate their innate technologies of weaving and knitting
(2) Helping these communities financially grow
(3) Making low-cost photobioreactors
(4) Creating material precursors for biodegradable plastics
(5) Offering beautiful objects and architectural spaces