powered by mycelium, mycotemple dome biodegrades to nourish the earth

mycelium powers the transformative growth of mycotemple

Spirituality and sustainable innovation converge in Côme Di Meglio’s transformative living sanctuary — MycoTemple. This five-meter-wide domed structure harnesses the power of mycelium to grow temples, sheltering a space for physical and spiritual transformation. While the organism forms the structure’s primary construction material, a hand-carved wooden structure is hidden within, revealed only as the mycelium gradually biodegrades over time and returns to fertilize the soil from which it came.

Beyond its artistic and architectural appeal, the space has been realized to foster a diverse range collective experiences and communal events, including gatherings, concerts, and quiet moments of contemplation. ‘All the emotions and dreams birthed in the dome will nurture this porous material,’ notes Di Meglio.

all images by Gian-Battista Lombardo unless stated otherwise

Côme Di Meglio crafts a spiritual and biodegradable structure

The project immerses individuals in an environment that triggers augmented awareness and an overwhelming sense of presence, awakening a deep connection to nature within each of its visitors. In a poetic transformation, as MycoTemple returns to the Earth, it will nourish the soul with the energy it has absorbed, integrating with the natural world. As the mycelium gradually biodegrades, it unveils a concealed wooden architecture entirely hand-carved by artist Côme Di Meglio alongside a team of friends and fellow artists. Its gradual biodegradation is an integral part of the artwork’s aesthetic experience, inviting visitors to return throughout the seasons, and witness the passing of time. 

Every step of the mycelium cultivation process, from inception to completion, occurred in Di Meglio’s artist studio in Marseille. Utilizing a low-tech approach and repurposed industrial waste, particularly sawdust, the design team grew the architectural-sized dome segments in exploration of bio-material innovation.

MycoTemple in a pine grove facing the Mediterranean

mushrooms fruiting on its outer shell

this five-meter-wide domed structure harnesses the power of mycelium to grow temples

the oculus filters in natural light to foster spirituality

a hand-carved wooden structure is hidden within, revealed only as the mycelium gradually biodegrades

project info:

name: MycoTemple
designer: Côme Di Meglio

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: ravail khan | designboom