Earth Casting with Mycelial Monoliths and Inflatable Molds

This research project explores the growth of an entirely living house, consisting of mycelium grown around a monolithic inflatable mold, and covered in soil and planted with trees, grasses, and shrubs.

A supporting structure would be partially embedded in the internal mycelium shell. This structure can either be made from bamboo, or another organic material. A geodesic form would bear the weight of the soil the most evenly. Over time the roots of the plants will join the surrounding soil and strengthen creating a completely organic self supporting shell.

Successional Architecture

Most development attempts to plan the entirety of the site in question. Though a combination of landscaping and maintenance, the divide between built structure and surrounding environment is artificially maintained. An alternative approach is the design of structures for ecological succession that work with existing organisms to become one with the native landscape. This approach attempts to maximize the area of functional ecology, while allowing for the presence of concentrated human dwellings.