Mycelium is the root network of mushrooms. Depending on the conditions in which the mycelial network grows, it can take on similar appearances to plastic, foam or leather. This is why there is a lot of interest in mycelium as a natural building material. But is using mycelium really that nature-friendly? In current applications, the mycelium is killed at the end of the production process.
What will change in architecture if we do see mycelium as a living being? Who knows, maybe buildings will spring up like mushrooms in the future! During Waag Open: Fungateria we will investigate alternative ways of building together with nature. By playing a game we imagine the future of living mycelium architecture.
Growing mycelium
In preparation of Waag Open: Fungateria, we are growing mycelium. Would you like to join us? Then also sign up for the workshop: building with mycelium on Thursday 8 May (19:00 - 22:00 hrs). Find out how to grow mycelium and make your own mycelium panel. Afterwards, you will receive a notebook with some instructions on how to care for your mycelium. We ask you to keep track of the proces for 30 days and hope you would like to share your experiences during Waag Open!
