PhD “BioReceptive Wood”

Regenerative Architecture, with its focus on surpassing net-zero impacts of sustainability, seeks to enhance the environment. One strategy for achieving this goal is Bioreceptivity, defined as the capacity of a material to be inhabited by living organisms without undergoing biodeterioration. The concept of “Bioreceptive Wood” (Bio+W) involves designing and developing the first wooden bioreceptive panel as part of the regenerative architectural toolset. Bio+W serves conventional architectural functions while simultaneously encouraging the secondary colonization of the wood panel by cryptogamic covers, a type of biological soil crust.

The potential environmental impact of implementing Bio+W is significant, as it promotes the growth of diverse organisms. However, the susceptibility of wood to water damage and rot poses challenges, leading the project to investigate whether sustainably sourced, untreated hard or soft wood can serve as attractive paneling in urban spaces. The research involves examining water flow over different wood hardness panels, such as oak, pine, and cedar, to develop strategic patterns that maximize water and air flow. The aim is to accelerate the growth of cryptogamic covers while preserving the wood’s integrity through targeted surface treatments. The overarching goal of the research project is to explore innovative applications of natural wood in architectural design, considering its increasing popularity in various facade applications, including cladding and decking.