The Venice Architecture Biennale Places Strong Emphasis on Sustainability
From May 20, 2023, to November 26, 2023, the 18th International Architecture Biennale will take place in Venice. This edition, titled “The Laboratory of the Future,” will showcase the participating exhibitors’ focus on climate neutrality and decolonization. The works of the 64 national participants will be displayed in the pavilions, Giardini, Arsenale, and throughout Venice’s city center. Concurrently, the German-Iranian architect Yasmine Mahmoudieh will present her new exhibition, “Metamorphosis,” which centers around sustainable resources for architecture. One can view her works, including a uniquely designed bar that combines art, ambience, and 3D printing, at the Scoletta dell’Arte dei Tiraoro e Battioro on the Grand Canal.
Yasmine Mahmoudieh, an architect, interior designer, and entrepreneur based in London with roots in Hamburg, has dedicated several years to exploring additive manufacturing and the use of recycled plastic and innovative resources. She has earned numerous accolades for her past projects, which emphasize versatile atmospheres, authentic materials, climate neutrality, and technological innovation such as 3D printing. Notable contributions include her involvement in the design of Radison Sas Hotel in Berlin, Carpe Diem in Salzburg, Hotel Four Seasons in Hamburg, and Nevai Hotel in Verbier, Switzerland.
The exhibition “Metamorphosis” addresses the issue of plastic pollution and advocates for the exploration of new resources. Yasmine Mahmoudieh aims to inspire architects to embrace a diverse range of methods and foster creativity when it comes to materials. In this exhibition, Mahmoudieh showcases furniture with wave-like forms that are 3D printed using recycled plastic sourced from the oceans. Collaborating with Milan-based startup Ginger Additive and other partners, she introduces the “Turn Me” chair, which uses 3D printing technology and thermoplastic granules. Ginger Additive specializes in manufacturing 3D printers and employs extrusion technology with granules instead of traditional filament.
Building Material for the Future for Sustainable Architecture
During the Metamorphosis exhibition, Yasmine Mahmoudieh explores the use of mycelium as a design material. Mycelium, the root system of fungi, consists of rapidly growing, thread-like cells called hyphae. It can be cultivated relatively quickly and applied for various purposes. Notably, mycelium is biodegradable, lightweight, durable, and compostable. Its potential applications span across fashion, design, and even the medical field. Mahmoudieh views mycelium as the future of construction materials, stating that while recyclable plastic is a starting point, architecture must continue its progression towards environmentally friendly resources. The name “Metamorphosis” captures the essence of this shift in material usage. Through her installation at the Venice Biennale, Mahmoudieh aims to highlight the possibilities of biomaterials in architecture and foster contemplation on this subject. To learn more about Yasmine Mahmoudieh and her projects, please visit HERE.
What do you think of this sustainable architecture project? Let us know in a comment below or on our LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages! Don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter here, the latest 3D printing news straight to your inbox! You can also find all our videos on our YouTube channel.
*Cover photo credits: Impact Design Now