At first glance, MycoTemple defies all conventional architectural expectations. Its rugged, earth-like façade, adorned with thriving mushrooms, appears as an extension of the natural world itself. Stepping inside feels like entering a timeless dimension, where expansive, soft-textured walls envelop visitors in a warm, breathing environment. This ever-changing structure, composed of living fungal mycelium, is not built to last but rather to transform and dissolve, creating a dynamic, ephemeral experience where every moment is uniquely impermanent.
Fungi have emerged as a revolutionary material in sustainable architecture due to their exceptional carbon absorption capabilities. Whether sealing cracks in concrete or forming entire structures, fungi have proven to be a versatile and eco-friendly alternative to conventional building materials. Mycelium-based materials are not only renewable and biodegradable, but they also offer superior fire resistance, thermal insulation, and soundproofing—even possessing the ability to purify air pollutants. This rise of fungal architecture challenges our perception of buildings, shifting them from inert concrete monoliths to living, breathing organisms that harmonize with nature.
With the construction and building industries responsible for 37% of global CO₂ emissions, the integration of fungi and wood-based materials presents a transformative opportunity to drastically reduce environmental impact. More than just an architectural innovation, MycoTemple represents a vision of coexistence, regeneration, and a greener future.
Project Info
Project Name: MycoTemple
Type: Architectural Installation
Location: Marseille, France
Artist: Côme Di Meglio
Year: 2023
Reference : https://www.yankodesign.com/2023/10/28/spirituality-and-sustainable-innovation-unite-in-architectural-splendor-at-the-mycotemple/