CyberBio Architecture

This thesis is a multi-directional investigation: it situates itself in between the realms of science, technology and design. 

A wide range of bio-composite and prototypes were created during the research process to test out materials with temporal properties. Parallel to the material investigations is the technological development of hybrid-systems, creating new forms of user interaction and digital interfaces. The simultaneous design of digital and physical components allows for rapid prototyping at 1:1 scale, exploring the new design parameters of mixed-reality environments. 

The output of this thesis is applied experimentation at a 1:1 scale to create a functional 'CyberBio' architectural system. In this system, biological matter and digital information actively interlink through AR headsets, environmental sensors and diverse actuators. 

The biomaterial in this project embeds in the living material life cycle of growth and decay, in this instance, algae. It requires the user to look after and care for it over time. In this sense, the architecture becomes like a pet, adapting and changing with the user. The CyberBio installation demonstrates exemplary parameters of this interaction, including moisturising, feeding, petting and talking to the living-material. The manipulation of organic mediums along with its live data information, point towards a new form of architecture, one which is living and growing among us.