Myco-Ceiling is a research initiative that demonstrates the integration of mycelium-based composites in architecture and construction as interior-fit out components. These bio-composites are grown and harvested by pairing selected wood-decay fungi with industrial and agricultural wood waste. During colonization, the fungal mycelium (vegetative part of a fungi) acts as a living binder, transforming low-value lignocellulosic particles into high-value lightweight, moldable panels.
The project’s objectives focus on three macro components: scalability, integration, and performance. Throughout the project, we progress from small laboratory experiments to integrated, building-ready components. Design-for-assembly strategies inform panel geometry, edge conditions, and fastening so the bio-composites connect cleanly with existing ceiling grids, services, and maintenance routines. This directly addresses current research gaps for mycelium-based materials, namely questions of scale, consistency and performance driven design.
Within this context, the HIL Living Lab operates as both testbed and public interface. Full-scale mycelium ceiling panels are installed to demonstrate acoustic optimization and design customization in a real environment. Geometry, porosity, and surface texture are parametrically tuned to absorb targeted frequency bands while expressing site-specific aesthetics. Iterative measurements – reverberation time, absorption coefficients, and insertion loss – feed results back.
