International Journal of Sustainable Energy Development · 2017 · 66 citations · 8 references
ArchitectureMaterials EngineeringSustainable ArchitectureBuilding MaterialsBuilding StructuresSustainable Building DesignBuilding ConstructionGeotechnical DesignGreen Building MaterialsStructural DesignStructural SystemsSustainable Building MaterialsBamboo Structural MaterialsBio-based Construction MaterialsBranching StructureCompressionCompression-only StructuresComputational StaticsMycelium-based MaterialsSpatial Structure
MycoTree is a spatial branching structure made out of load-bearing mycelium components. Its geometry was designed using 3D graphic statics, utilising compression-only form to enable the weak material to perform structurally. Using only mycelium and bamboo, the structure represents a provocative vision of how one may move beyond the mining of our construction materials from the earth's crust to their cultivation; how achieving stability through geometry rather than through material strength opens up possibilities to use weaker materials structurally and safely; and ultimately, how newly developed cultivated materials in combination with informed structural design have the potential to propose an alternative to established building materials for a more sustainable construction industry.
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