Bioluminescent Pavilion Lighting
Bio-Moon Lab by Laura Benetton fuses art and science to explore bioluminescence. By cultivating Vibrio fischeri bacteria in petri dishes and bioreactors, she produces sustainable “bio-light”. This living illumination serves as an eco-conscious alternative to conventional artificial lighting. The visionary project challenges traditional energy systems by reconceptualizing light as a living, organic medium that bridges ecology and creative expression.
From Silk Leaf to EXHALE
Designed by bioengineer Julian Melchiorri, EXHALE is the world’s first living bionic chandelier. Inspired by biomimicry, the chandelier features 70 glass leaf modules that house living green microalgae. Fueled by daylight and LEDs, the algae purify indoor air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen through photosynthesis. Connected to a life-support device, the chandelier beautifully exchanges life-giving resources with its environment.
PhotoSynthEtica / Photo.Synth.Etica
Developed by ecoLogicStudio founders Claudia Pasquero and Marco Poletto, PhotoSynthetica integrates living microalgae into architectural systems. These bio-digital structures function as active photobioreactors that capture carbon dioxide and air pollutants while releasing oxygen. By combining digital design and biological intelligence, the project transforms buildings into bio-power stations, pioneering a bio-digital age where architecture acts as a living interface.
Eco Machine (John Todd Ecological Design)
Created by Dr. John Todd, the Eco Machine at the Omega Center is a chemical-free ecological wastewater treatment system. This closed-loop facility uses complex ecologies—including plants, fungi, bacteria, and snails—to purify up to 52,000 gallons of wastewater daily. Flowing through settlement tanks, constructed wetlands, aerated lagoons, and sand filters, the reclaimed water safely replenishes the aquifer while serving as an educational model.
Philips Bio-Light
The Philips Bio-Light is a conceptual lighting system from the “Microbial Home” project that explores electricity-free illumination. Housed in hand-blown glass cells, bioluminescent bacteria emit a soft green glow. The system is sustained by methane gas generated from household waste using a bio-digester. This organic design highlights untapped household energy sources while exploring sustainable, heat-free ambient lighting alternatives.
ecoLogicStudio
ecoLogicStudio is an innovative design firm specializing in living architectures. Founded by Claudia Pasquero and Marco Poletto, the studio actively harnesses microorganisms, such as microalgae and mycelium, to create dynamic, air-purifying spaces. Their groundbreaking installations merge AI, digital fabrication, and metabolic cycles, proving that sustainable architecture can function as an active, living ecosystem within the urban environment.
