Mycotopia

We began our research into mycology by making the journey to Geneva to attend a series of workshops and seminars aimed at exploring bioremediation through mycological techniques. Our concept began to take form wiith influence from the work of Suzanne — we were intrigued by the notion of the ‘wood wide web’, a name given the the vast underground mycelial networks, that connect almost all plants and trees, and play a vital role in sharing nutrients within eco systems.



Connecting neighbouring gardens to one and other through a series of simple organic tubular connections, and modular panel systems. Creating elusive partnerships with all plant species in the system and promoting a socially engaging way for communities to interact, whilst harnessing the benefits of growing plants.




Experiments
By making a controlled tubular environment, we realised that we can provoke the direction of mycelial growth through our planting system. The mycelium, reaches out - in hunt for nutrients, and in doing so can connect multiple planting points to one and other through the network. Once the connection is established the plants can benefit from the system by sharing nutrients with one and other. We experimented with various nutrient rich substrates for the mycelium to inhabit, but found that used coffee grounds, rich in nitrogen and phosphorus encouraged fast and stable growth. With this knowledge, we’ve managed to vacuum form inoculated substrates and create living panels, capable of housing, and taking care of the plants in our system.

The mycelium reaches out - in the search of nutrients, and in doing so can connect with multiple planting points through the network. Once the connection is established the plants can benefit from the system by sharing nutrients with one and other.