Microbial materials in architectural practice: A three-dimensional approach to the future of biocement and mycelium composites as construction materials

This thesis investigates biocement and mycelium composites as building materials for their viability to be integrated into an existing framework, as well as their capacity to challenge traditional notions of architecture and sustainability. The research explores a three-dimensional approach to carving a path for the future of these materials by analyzing specific biocement and mycelium composite products from three perspectives: 1.??Technical performance and material properties in comparison to conventional materials. 2.??Environmental implications and benefits considering resource depletion, end-of-life scenarios, and carbon emissions. 3.??A more complex theoretical investigation into interspecies ethics and the global context of the materials through historical narratives and case studies. While a technical comparison of each product assesses the viability of biocement and mycelium composites in comparison to conventional building materials, and an environmental analysis assesses the benefits and necessity for considering their integration, it is ultimately the overlaying of these dimensions while addressing the critical ethical considerations they inspire that differentiates this study. The heart of the shifting paradigms brought about by multi-species collaborative practices lies in shifting narratives away from a human-centric perspective, to recognize and appreciate the agency of non-human life forms as actors in the production process. This theoretical investigation culminates in the application of this three-dimensional approach to addressing the challenges facing the widespread implementation of biocement and mycelium composites in architectural practice. Through this practical application, we can see some of the ways in which interspecies collaboration in material production can inspire and pave new pathways for a more sustainable future for architecture.