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Algaevator

Designed at MIT, Algaevator is an artificial environment used to increase the production of algae through the introduction of slow movement, carbon dioxide and sunlight.

What does it mean to spatialize and inhabit infrastructure? The BoTT Lab pavilion investigates the potential of biotechnology utilities to create transparent and lightweight architectural surfaces. An algae photobioreactor is an artificial environment used to increase the production of algae through the introduction of slow movement, carbon dioxide, and increased access to sunlight. The algae is then used for various consumer products and alternative fuels.

**Top:** Jie Zhang & Tyler Stevermer, Algaevator. Photo Dheera Venkatraman. **Above:** Jie Zhang & Tyler Stevermer, Algaevator. Photo Iwan Baan

Typically the devices used to propagate algae are hidden in agricultural and industrial structures. This proposal creates a weather-tight roofing system that can add both spatial value and agriculturally productivity to our everyday environment.

Research shows that gravity-based photobioreactors (a form of the device where the algae are never touched by moving mechanisms and pumps, but instead by air bubbles and gravity) have increased yields as they offer a gentler form of movement and carbon dioxide introduction. Three separate spirals are intercoiled between a heat-fused, water-tight, layered membrane.

Not only does the funnel shape optimize proper sun exposure for algae propagation, but it is able to harvest rainwater for adjacent bio-tech functions while dividing the otherwise open cube of the pavilion, providing spatial experience and implied visitor circulation.

Algaevator
Program: pavilion
Architects: Jie Zhang, Tyler Stevermer, in collaboration with Selgascano
Completion: 2016

Regenerate space, rediscover the human

At Milan Design Week 2025, domusbreakfast@bocconi explores the connection between urban and relational regeneration, with design as a tool for connection. Among the key participants, Franke highlights the role of the kitchen as a vital space for nurturing relationships and renewing the social fabric