The first building constructed from mycelium is currently taking shape in the Czech Republic, led by home reconstruction financier Buřinka and designed by graduate Tomasz Kloza, offering a fresh take on the modern glamping experience.
With its unique morphology, the project serves as a showcase for the diverse applications of mycelium in sustainable construction.
“Indeed, laboratory tests conducted as part of the SAMOROST project during 2023 and early 2024 confirm the significant potential of mycocomposite as an alternative to non-organic materials commonly used in the region,” says Jakub Seifert, chairman of the MYMO Association, a partner in the SAMOROST experiment with Buřinka.
Seifert highlights the versatility of this innovative material, which can be utilized for insulation, house structures, and furniture, among other uses.
Tomasz Kloza, a member of the MYMO Association and a graduate student at the Faculty of Architecture of the Czech Technical University in Prague, envisioned the glamping prototype resembling two parasol mushrooms emerging from the ground.
Kloza explains, “Our ‘mushrooms’ consist of fourteen identical segments, resembling a jigsaw puzzle. We combined natural and sustainable components with mycelium to create a unique whole.”
The architect’s design incorporates wooden and segmented shingles on the roof, reminiscent of a parasol mushroom’s cap, along with decorative mycelium elements and a green facade linking the living spaces.
The SAMOROST house concept by Buřinka offers flexibility in the size and layout of the ‘mushrooms’, allowing for various internal configurations and functions. MYMO members Karolína Petřeková and Petra Jašicová have chosen to combine a kitchen with seating in one mushroom and a bedroom in the other.
“Our goal was to create a practical interior space using mycocomposite and other natural materials, while also offering a luxurious yet natural ambiance that captivates visitors,” they explain. The kitchen features integrated appliances and ample storage, while the bedroom includes tailored storage for gadgets and electric space heaters for warmth.
Extensive use of mycocomposite materials in the furnishings further enhances the modern glamping design.
“The SAMOROST House will be completed by the end of this year. We will showcase a section of the house, along with the complete technical solution, at an experiential exhibition in the gallery of the National Technical Library. While initially designed for glamping, this type of building holds potential for various applications,” concludes Jakub Seifert.
