At the Heijmans Hive innovation hub in Rosmalen, the Netherlands, a new type of bio-based façade panel has taken shape. Called the Growing Facade, this 3D printed system is made from mycelium—the root structure of fungi—and designed using artificial intelligence. Created by Studio Klarenbeek & Dros in partnership with construction firm Heijmans, the project offers a clear glimpse into how natural materials and digital tools can reshape the building industry.

A Vision Beyond Experimentation

Ralph Oduber, Head of Innovation at Heijmans, explained that the Growing Facade is more than just a trial. The team grows the panels locally using mycelium and applies them directly to the built environment. Heijmans sees this as part of its “Horizon 3” strategy, which focuses on future-oriented innovations that challenge conventional methods. By teaming up with designers, researchers, and artists, the company aims to push sustainable construction forward.

Using Existing Systems for New Materials

Designers Eric Klarenbeek and Maartje Dros have worked with mycelium for years. At first, they explored small-scale uses in design and art. Over time, they saw a bigger opportunity. Since the Netherlands leads in mushroom production, it already has the right infrastructure to support mycelium as a building material.

This realisation helped Klarenbeek & Dros scale up quickly. Today, their materials are used in theatre sets, museum displays, and even fashion as an alternative to leather. Most recently, they introduced the material into architectural applications—starting with façades.

Blending AI and Design

To create the panels, the studio uses artificial intelligence. They train AI models with natural themes such as seaweed and marine life. The system generates visual patterns, which the designers translate into printable structures. “What you see is what you grow,” Klarenbeek said. The panels are printed locally using renewable resources, without moulds or plastic.

Each one is modular and has strong acoustic properties. The design even allows space for wiring or heating, opening the door to multi-functional façades. Because the production process uses no waste, it also supports circular construction goals.

Towards Truly Biobased Architecture

The material is fire-resistant, compostable, odour-free, and entirely natural. Still, there is one challenge: current biobased coatings are not yet ideal for outdoor use. Klarenbeek & Dros are working with partners to develop solutions that make the panels more durable in exterior settings.

In all, the Growing Facade points to a new way of building—where materials are grown, not made, and where digital tools help unlock the full potential of nature.

Source & photo: Duurzaam Gebouwd