Bacterial biocement investigates the potential to incorporate bacteria into a living material to reduce our reliance on concrete. Unlike traditional concrete, this material does not require heat and can be grown with human assistance. To fabricate these bricks, bacteria are added to sand and placed in molds. Over a series of days, the bacteria are fed nutrients and naturally harden without the use of cement, plaster, or resin. As long as it’s fed, the living system continues to harden and strengthen.

The project also explored the potential of embedding a genetically engineered bacterial strain within the bricks to remain alive and signal the presence of environmental pollutants through color. This was envisioned as a way to spatially map ecological health. In doing so, the work begins to shift our understanding of architecture - from static structures to dynamic systems that engage with their ecosystems.