Mycela
Photo: JULIE HRNČÍŘOVÁ
Mycela is an Oslo based mycelium studio and lab run by founders Renée Isabel Jung, Maria Aaslund and partner Sondre Eng. By combining fungal mycelium with local waste, they develop self-growing biomaterials and design without compromising the well-being of people or the planet.
Mycela encourages designers and producers to rethink our whole manufacturing process. We need to design new materials that move away from the exploitation of non-renewable resources, towards working with renewable life.
Mycela produces interior objects, sound panels and spatial design with the understanding of our genetic need to be connected to living natural environments. By sourcing and utilising local, agricultural and urban waste, the material has a minimal environmental footprint and puts the principles of circular design into practice.
Mycelium can be tailored for a range of uses within interior design, architecture, urban design and visual arts. All current production takes place in our Mycelium studio + lab in Oslo.
Process
PHASE 1: MATERIAL DESIGN
We are able to utilize a wide variety of biological waste in our products, including wood chives, textile, wool or paper etc. The waste products need to be of natural and untreated character in order to ensure biodegradability after end-use. The mycelium material can be fine-tuned in performance, functionality and aesthetics depending on the area of use.
PHASE 2: PRODUCT DESIGN
The chosen waste product and mycelium get combined in a mould with a design of choice. We can make the mould in-house or an existing mould can be sent to us. With our vacuum-forming machine, we can also produce small to medium-sized moulds in-higher volumes.
PHASE 3: PRODUCTION
The moulds are then filled with mycelium combined with chosen waste and left to grow for 7-10 days in our production space. The pieces are then removed from the mould and left for 2-3 days to grow a velvety smooth surface. The final step involves a drying process with gentle heat treatment before the product is quality ensured and delivered to the client.
Mycela is accepting bespoke custom made orders. Contact Novooi for inquiries.
