ecoLogicStudio, the London-based architecture and research firm founded in 2005 by Prof Claudia Pasquero and Dr Marco Poletto, has officially unveiled its latest project, the Design Apothecary in Turin. It is a groundbreaking biophilic interior, a space designed to integrate with nature, redefining the concept of domestic ecology.
Transforming industrial heritage into a biophilic interior
The project represents a revolution in the transformation of industrial legacy into modern creative spaces. Its centrepiece is a functional air-purifying algae garden comprising 17 photobioreactors. The interior also includes a laboratory with a library of medicinal plants, a showroom showcasing biophilic design and a private space for guests.
Biophilic interior – why Turin?
Claudia Pasquero and Marco Poletto chose Turin as the location for their first Design Apothecary because of the city’s rich artistic, scientific and technological heritage. Turin is renowned for its radical approach to design, while also facing challenges such as high levels of air pollution, making it an ideal place to test bio-design. The project is housed in the 19th-century industrial complex Ex Mulini Feyles, which was home to the Arte Povera movement in the 1970s.
The algae garden – the heart of the space
At the centre of the 250-square-metre loft is an algae garden, which is a highly efficient photosynthesis system. Spirulina, Chlorella and Cyanidium in 17 bioreactors absorb 250 grams of CO2 (the equivalent of four mature trees) every day, clean the air, and produce 140 grams of dry biomass and 84 grams of plant protein that can be used as food. The system also generates 190 grams of oxygen per day. The harvest is regularly processed in the kitchen overlooking the laboratory. The biomass is used as a fertiliser for medicinal plants, an ingredient in gourmet dishes, the material of biodegradable mycelial capsules and the raw material for 3D printing of interior design elements.
Biophilic interior in the spirit of ecological closed-loop circulation
The structure of the algae garden was made from a modular fir wood grate, connected by steel screws and 3D printed joints. The structure is fully rotatable and expandable. All biodegradable components were printed on site, emphasising the circular nature of the design process.
Modern kitchen and plant laboratory
A kitchen and mycelium storage system were created on the south-west wall of the loft. The space is sheltered by polycarbonate panels in wooden frames, sliding on steel rails. A balcony adjacent to the unit houses 10 pots of medicinal and climbing plants that provide natural shade in summer, reducing the need for air conditioning.
Spaces for experimentation and display
In the centre of the laboratory is a modular table (2×2 m) that can be configured for research or social gatherings. The exhibition room acts as a gallery showcasing the bio-art works and design experiments of ecoLogicStudio, including original works exhibited at the Centre Pompidou in Paris, ZKM in Karlsruhe and Mudac in Lausanne.
Private hospitality area
Behind the living room is a library of bio materials and a guest space. Modular fir wood construction accommodates two raised tatami beds over a wardrobe and a cork desk that transitions into a cosy reading alcove with views of the city.
Design Apothecary – the future of biophilic design
The Design Apothecary project represents a breakthrough in interior design thinking. It combines innovative biotechnology with organic design, redefining the way we can live in harmony with nature. With its unique structure and functionality, the space not only provides residential comfort, but also actively contributes to the environment.
Project: ecoLogicStudio (Claudia Pasquero, Marco Poletto)
Location: Turin
Photography: Pepe Fotografia
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