Microbial Oasis: Architecture for Microorganisms

What happens when we consider humans as donors for microbes? In our recent interview with Shijia Huang, we invited her to discuss her latest project because we were struck by this idea and the compelling visuals of her work.

Shijia Huang is a biodesigner who recently graduated from MA. Biodesign at Central Saint Martins in London. Her final project Microbial Oasis: Architecture for Microorganisms, is currently on show at this year’s Dutch Design Week 2024. Below, we briefly summarize the project, before unpacking our conversation further.

The project explores innovative 3D-printed habitats made from human cells as climate change threatens the planet's smallest life forms. It reimagines our role as donors to nature, fostering a future of mutual survival and interspecies harmony.

Microorganisms—nature's invisible architects in their own right—are essential for processes like carbon and nitrogen cycling, soil fertility, and climate regulation. But they face severe threats from climate change, pollution, and human activities.

Unlike the well-documented declines in plant and animal biodiversity, the loss of microbial diversity has been largely ignored, despite its potential catastrophic impacts.

Microbial Oasis: Architecture for Microorganisms thus highlights the crucial role of these microorganisms in sustaining life on Earth and advocates for their protection.

Alternative Micro-Habitats

Drawing inspiration from nature, the project supports microbial life through 3D bio-printing. Utilizing the structure of sphagnum moss—which hosts diverse microbes—the habitats are created from silk fibroin and hydroxyapatite, both biocompatible materials.

By seeding these structures with human stem cells that can develop into bone tissue, the project creates sanctuaries for bacteria and algae while exploring new tissue engineering possibilities. This approach challenges conventional conservation paradigms, making the human body an active participant in preserving microbial life.

Reimagining Our Role

The project invites us to consider our role in nurturing a legacy of coexistence with nature. By creating habitats for microorganisms, the project encourages us to actively protect and promote microbial biodiversity.

This concept expands traditional conservation efforts, urging us to foster a more reciprocal relationship with the natural world, where we become guardians of its smallest and most vital inhabitants.

Initial Starting Point for Microbial Oasis

Shijia's background in architecture greatly influences her approach to design. She has dedicated her work to creating environments that support the survival of microorganisms, underscoring their importance in our ecosystem.

Her exploration of biomineralization and the use of human-derived materials, particularly bones, are central to her vision of fostering a reciprocal relationship between humanity and nature.

The choice of bone as a structural element symbolizes the interconnectedness of human life and the natural world, prompting viewers to reconsider their perceptions of both. 

The project culminates in a striking sculpture that visually embodies this delicate equilibrium. Shijia hopes to provoke thought about our connection to the microbial world, illustrating the benefits that these organisms bring to our planet.

“Microorganisms are essential to ecological balance,” she emphasized, challenging the traditional narrative of human dominance over nature.

Innovative Techniques and Collaborative Efforts

Throughout our discussion, Shijia detailed her experimentation with 3D bioprinting and scaffold materials, conducted in collaboration with her university and the prestigious Francis Crick Institute.

Although she faced challenges in fully exploring human cell extraction within this project, her emphasis on creating optimal environments for cell growth highlights the intersection of tissue engineering and environmental science.

Shijia's innovative techniques reflect her commitment to bridging the gap between design and scientific research. Her work serves as a powerful reminder of our shared existence with microorganisms and the imperative to innovate sustainably in design practices.

The Broader Message: Humans as Donors

One of the most thought-provoking aspects of our conversation was Shijia's concept of humans as donors of microbes. While this idea may elicit unease or dystopian associations, she encourages a more positive interpretation.

Shijia advocates for reflecting on what we can give back to nature rather than simply taking from it. “We are part of nature,” she stated, emphasizing the need for a reciprocal relationship between humans and the environment.

While Shijia acknowledges that discussing this perspective can be polarizing, she believes the core message is one of connection and contribution to nature's ecosystem. This exploration invites us to rethink our role in the natural world and consider the impact of our actions.

Future Plans

As Shijia continues to navigate the intersection of design and biology, she remains eager to expand her work and collaborate with scientists to develop her ideas further. Her architectural background provides a unique lens through which she views the potential for interdisciplinary collaboration, reinforcing her belief that design and art should work hand in hand with science.

Shijia's project has already attracted diverse reactions from audiences. One particularly poignant moment occurred when a tutor, a microalgae expert from Cambridge, was moved to tears by her work. However, she also recognizes that some find the concepts unsettling, illustrating the complex nature of her ideas.

To enhance viewer experience and understanding, Shijia plans to incorporate additional context into her exhibitions through videos and booklets, making her narrative more accessible.

Shijia's Microbial Oasis is a thought-provoking exploration of our relationship with nature, urging us to recognize and nurture our bond with the environment. As she develops her projects, her innovative approach to design has the potential to inspire both the design and scientific communities.

For those interested in following Shijia's journey, she plans to create a personal website to showcase her projects and updates. Stay tuned for more exciting developments from this innovative designer, as she continues to push the boundaries of design and foster a deeper understanding of our connection with the microbial world.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Shijia for generously sharing her time and insights with us. Her work, Microbial Oasis: Architecture for Microorganisms, for Dutch Design Week 2024 will be shown from 19th October until 27th October 2024, West area, Next Nature Museum (Evoluon), Noord Brabantlaan 1A.