Exploring Biofilms and Mycelium in Building Facades

On building facades, we often see green and red biofilms of algae, or the distinctive white and black spots of fungal networks known as mycelium. These natural colorations are typically viewed as indicators of poor building maintenance rather than as opportunities for artistic expression or the integration of living systems into architecture.

In my pilot experiments with various stones, inclinations and different samples to grow algae, I observed that these species are extremely sensitive to their specific environments (moisture). An additional challenge for their artistic use is their slow growth rate, which limits their practicality in dynamic design processes. Moreover, these organisms, while growing into the pores of the stones, trap moisture in the outer layers of the facade. This moisture retention, combined with the frequent temperature fluctuations, leads to expansion and the eventual crumbling of the stones.

Therefore, despite their aesthetic potential, there are currently no widespread commercial applications for these species in building materials, with their use being limited to niche areas like graffiti art.