The Growing Lab—Mycelia

After studying at the Università di Bologna, Maurizio Montalti completed his MA at the Design Academy Eindhoven. His multidisciplinary studio, Officina Corpuscoli, focuses on developing mycelium-based materials that enable a shift beyond traditional production methods.

The Growing Lab conducts research into alternative materials and production methods and considers the consequences for design. It explores the use of ‘cultivated’ objects to enable a shift from our reliance on oil-based plastic compounds.

Evoking the possibilities of an alternative future in which everyday objects are grown using microorganisms such as fungi, the Mycelia product series includes surface tiles, vessels, bowls, and plates. The products are the outcome of research Montalti conducted in collaboration with Utrecht University and CNC Exotic Mushrooms.