Reinterpreting water’s ecological role – Integrating living materials for inclusive design
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69143/2464-9309/18222025Keywords:
water and public space, sensory urban planning, research-through-design, micro-architectures, ecological and social resilienceAbstract
Water has historically acted as a cultural catalyst for space, shaping collective life through its ecological and sensory presence. With this in mind, the article reinterprets the ecological role of water through a ‘research-through-design’ approach that develops a conceptual framework for micro-architectural design. The study explores how bio-based materials, particularly mycelium composites and bioluminescent systems, can enhance multisensory engagement and ecological awareness in public spaces. Drawing on recent international literature and design research, the contribution identifies parameters for luminous performance, material behaviour, and environmental responsiveness. The resulting proposal positions water as an active, perceptible, and inclusive spatial medium, contributing to current debates on multispecies design, sensory urbanism, and the link between SDGs 6, 11, and 13.
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Received: 10/09/2025; Revised: 20/10/2025; Accepted: 22/10/2025
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