Co-Corporeality of Humans, Machines, & Microbes

The theory of Co-Corporeality proposes that the built environment can be designed to promote coexistence and interaction between humans and microbial life, emphasizing the agency of both human and nonhuman actors. It explores how microbial activity can create new protoarchitectural materials and how living systems can be integrated into architecture and cooperate across different time scales.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 18 July 2022
Publisher: Birkhauser

The theory of Co-Corporeality posits the built environment as a living, breathing entity, fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and microbial life. This groundbreaking concept emerges from design-led research, seeking to create environments that accommodate a diverse array of species. Through a multidisciplinary lens, this book delves into the intricate interplay between human and nonhuman actors, exploring the agency and responsibilities of both.

In this era of technological advancements, novel sensor tools have emerged, enabling us to observe and interact with these diverse actors in unprecedented ways. Co-Corporeality seamlessly weaves microbiology, material science, artificial intelligence, and architecture together, creating a rich tapestry of interdisciplinary knowledge.

At its core, Co-Corporeality explores the fascinating potential of microbial activity to generate new protoarchitectural materials. By harnessing the power of microorganisms, architects and designers can create sustainable and resilient structures that not only blend with their surroundings but also collaborate with living systems on various temporal scales.

Living systems can be seamlessly integrated into architectural designs, fostering symbiotic relationships and enhancing the overall functionality and efficiency of buildings. Co-Corporeality encourages a holistic approach to design, where the boundaries between nature and human-made structures blur, creating a harmonious and sustainable environment for all.

By embracing the principles of Co-Corporeality, we can unlock the full potential of the built environment to support a thriving multispecies world. This transformative theory offers a roadmap for architects, designers, and policymakers to create environments that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible and socially inclusive.

In conclusion, Co-Corporeality is a groundbreaking concept that revolutionizes our understanding of the built environment and its role in fostering interspecies harmony. Through a multidisciplinary approach, this book provides valuable insights and tools for creating environments that are resilient, sustainable, and inclusive of all living beings. As we navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing world, Co-Corporeality offers a vision for a future where humans and microbes coexist in symbiotic harmony, creating a more vibrant and resilient planet for generations to come.

Weight: 511g
ISBN-13: 9783035625851