Perenniatropic - Architecture Interface
This project approaches the terrarium as a micro-ecosystem, where multiple organisms coexist, interact, and continuously reshape their environment. Rather than focusing on individual species, the work looks at relationships — systems of growth, decomposition, and exchange operating across different scales. Within these systems, boundaries are not fixed, but remain fluid and constantly negotiated. Developed as a short exploratory project during the first year of MA Biodesign, it translates this ecological logic into a responsive material system. The project proposes a soft wall structure based on mycelium, capable of responding to environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity by altering its form. Through reversible shape memory, the system adjusts the volume of enclosed air pockets, allowing its insulating performance to shift dynamically. In this context, growth is understood not as a linear process, but as something that emerges through interaction, responsiveness, and continuous transformation.
Observation and System Understanding
To ground this thinking, the project began with direct observation of a terrarium system named Odyssea, designed to simulate a biological environment. Through observation, key organisms within the ecosystem were identified. Isopods, as the only animals present, indicated ecological balance through their role in decomposition. Fungi in the soil and moss growing along the glass revealed patterns of spread, adaptation, and persistence beyond the intended design of the terrarium. Further laboratory experiments enabled the identification of dominant fungal species such as Aspergillus niger and Cladobotryum mycophilum. Their invasive and adaptive growth behaviours highlighted the dynamic interactions within the system. These observations led to a focus on symbiotic networks, particularly mycorrhizal systems, where fungi connect plant roots and soil through hyphal structures. This logic of connection became a key reference for the development of the project.
Environmental Behaviour and Data
To better understand the system, an Arduino-based setup was developed to monitor environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, CO₂, and light. Time-lapse observations and small-scale experiments revealed that fungal growth responds to environmental changes and nutrient distribution. Rather than being random, growth appeared directed and shaped by surrounding conditions. These findings reinforced the understanding of growth as a responsive and adaptive process.
Material Research: Mycelium
Mycelium was explored as a bio-based material for its adaptability and responsiveness to environmental conditions. Research indicates that mycelium can transition between rigid and flexible states in response to changes in humidity, suggesting the potential for reversible shape transformation. This behaviour informed the development of a system capable of responding to environmental stimuli.
Prototyping and System Development
The system was developed as a dynamic wall structure that adapts its form in response to environmental conditions. Under increased temperature and humidity, conditions favourable to mycelial growth, the material expands, thickening the wall. This growth increases both material density and the volume of trapped air, enhancing insulation and contributing to a cooler, drier interior environment. Under less favourable conditions, growth slows or stabilises, resulting in a thinner wall and reduced insulation. In this state, the boundary between interior and exterior becomes more permeable, allowing environmental exchange. Rather than maintaining constant performance, the system recedes when regulation is no longer required, aligning the space with conditions suitable for human comfort. Form development drew on biomimicry, origami logic, and pneumatic systems. Early prototypes were constructed using simple materials, gradually evolving into a modular structure capable of controlled expansion and contraction.
Material Booklet
Final Prototype
Daisy Chu
Edson Reyna
Haiyun Wu
Teaching + Technical
Nancy Diniz — Course Leader MA Biodesign
Alice Taylor — Lecturer of Biology and Living Systems
Jon Flint — Lecturer in Design and Fabrication
Paula Nerlich — Visiting Practitioner
Paula Molina — Graduate Teaching Assistant
Technical Support
Shem Johnson — Specialist Grow Lab Technician
Barbara Paes — Specialist Grow Lab Technician
MA BioDesign - CSM - UAL 2024/25