Natural Splendour

Symbiotic Design

In response to the pressing need for a reduction of carbon emissions, as outlined in the forthcoming Paris Climate Agreement, this project proposes a novel design approach addressing both environmental concerns and cultural ties. Titled “Natural Splendour”, the design proposal aims to reinvent Christmas decoration by substituting traditional incandescent and light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs for natural, bioluminescent materials.

The proposed outcome seeks to maintain the festive charm we associate with Christmas time, whilst significantly reducing light pollution, carbon emissions and energy bills in cities. The project showcases the potential of using living materials in urban design, offering a more regenerative approach to address the current reduction challenges, without placing limitations on current cultural expectations.

Organism Driven Material Design (ODMD) Methodology

Using a self-developed ODMD methodology, the study dives into the potential of bioluminescent lighting solutions, through the case studies of three living organisms: the marine bacterium Vibrio fischeri; Saccharomyces cerevisiae French saison yeast with extrachromosomal Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) containing Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP); and the fungi Panellus stipticus. Through exploration and a ‘Do it Yourself’ (DiY) experimentation approach a tangible prototype, embodying geo-mimetric design principles to maximise light distribution, is developed. The design process includes distinct phases of understanding the organisms; exploring their optimal living conditions; establishing a material maintenance protocol; and the creation of a functional, symbiotic design.

DDW '24

The designer will present her research paper, detailing established cultivation parameters and mock-ups, while also offering an interactive experience where you can see and experience the bioluminescent light of the mentioned organisms.