Breathing Architectures by Côme Di Meglio
In the framework of S+T+ARTS EC(H)O – Challenge 10: Reconnecting to the Territory
The project
Breathing Architectures focuses on scaling up his artistic research on mycelium architectures by developing a semi-industrial prototype for large-scale, sustainable production using local resources. The project utilizes the abundant local reed, Arundo Donax, as the substrate for mycelium growth. Structural strategies involve designing a woven Arundo donax framework (gridshell method) that serves as both the structure and natural formwork for the growing mycelium, aiming to reduce waste and cost by eliminating inflatable plastic molds. The project also integrates AI by collaborating with Université d’Avignon to analyze speech and prosody within the domes to measure their influence on well-being and social connection. Prototypes like MyCosmos showcase new moldless techniques and focus on simplifying transport and assembly for eventual scalable implementation in urban spaces.
Hosted by: La French Tech Grande Provence & Villa Créative
The artist
Côme Di Meglio (b. 1988) is an artist based in Marseille who creates installations and architectures intended to promote deep social interactions and foster a heightened state of presence and sensitivity to the environment. Recognized for the ecological dimension of his practice, he has organized collective experiences such as “TransitionFOOD” and created immersive architectures using living organisms, exemplified by MycoTemple. His residency project, Breathing Architectures, focuses on utilizing mycelium as a sensory, ecological material and a symbol of interconnectedness to create spaces that nurture a connection with the Living. The project aims to integrate scalable, iteratively designed myco-material domes into urban spaces, utilizing local bio-materials and vernacular architecture to create a contemporary agora that enhances civic life, promotes openness, and fosters community bonds. The name references the physical process—mycelium shaped by inflatable formwork and grown in seven days (a “breath of time”)—and the creative breath, as data collected on the space’s effect on well-being will be fed into an AI generative tool to shape future iterations
