BIQ Algae-Powered Building
\”BIQ algae-powered building\” by Splitterwerk Architects, image/information source: Inhabitat
The Water Lilly is a biomimetic design project led by Cesare Griffa.
Project Overview
- Concept: Water Lilly features a system of intelligent architectural components designed to function as photobioreactors for cultivating microalgae inside buildings.
- Timeline and Collaboration: The project began in 2012 with the collaboration of a team of microbiologists from the University of Florence.
Functions and Benefits
The system leverages the intense photosynthetic activity of microalgae—which is significantly higher than that of standard plant organisms—to create symbiotic behaviors within the built environment. Its primary functions include:
- Reducing CO2 emissions: Absorbing carbon dioxide through photosynthesis.
- Air Purification: Improving indoor air quality.
- Water Treatment: Purifying gray water.
Key Innovation
A distinguishing feature of the Water Lilly, compared to other bioreactor systems, is its integration. The design includes all necessary components for algae growth within a single element, thereby eliminating the need for a separate service module.