Interfacing Architecture with Biology: Probiotic Surfaces, Textiles & Materials
(ref. BAP-2025-335)
Laatst aangepast: 07/06/25
Interfacing architecture with biology is an emerging field that blends biological principles and living organisms with architectural design to create buildings, spaces, and structures that are more attuned to human health, environmental sustainability, and the natural world. This interdisciplinary approach, called biodesign or biomimicry, combines architecture, biology, engineering, and material science to create innovative, nature-inspired solutions.
At KU Leuven/Campus Gent, the research teams BioTeC+ (PI: Prof. Jan F.M. Van Impe) and RAAD (PI: Prof. Rachel Armstrong) are joining forces to explore the integration of beneficial microbes through the development of materials within architectural design to promote healthier living environments.
About BioTeC+
The vision of BioTeC+ (Chemical & Biochemical Process Technology & Control) (PI: Prof. Jan F.M. Van Impe) is to consolidate and strengthen both its international research position and its societal impact by focusing on a carefully selected number of research areas and
application domains in applied chemistry/chemical and biological process engineering.
At present, these application domains can be characterized by the keywords industrial biotechnology, closing the waste/water cycle, and public health. These constitute the pillars (columns) (bio)chemical reactions & reactors, (biological) waste(-water) treatment systems, and predictive microbiology/microbial risk assessment within BioTeC+’s research matrix. This broad range of application domains is supported by our long standing systemic (systems and control) approach towards applied chemistry/chemical and biological process engineering. The research areas (i) systems theory, systems biology and analysis, process model identification (including optimal experimental design), (ii) process monitoring, and (iii) optimization and model based control characterize the transversal rows in the research matrix. These rows constitute the longstanding fundament of BioTeC+’s research covering and underpinning all application domains (pillars).
KU Leuven/BioTeC+ runs a state-of-the-art L2 accredited laboratory for experimental predictive microbiology research, as well as high end computing facilities. Our 4 postdocs and 14 PhD researchers are involved in numerous (inter)national research projects and networks,
including 6 ongoing EU projects.
Full details: https://cit.kuleuven.be/biotec
About RAAD
Regenerative Architecture, Arts, and Design (RAAD) is an ambitious research group at the forefront of architectural innovation. Our team embodies a fundamentally transdisciplinary approach, developing nature-based techniques and systems that redefine the practice of the built environment. We draw on diverse expertise, integrating the sciences of living systems with next-generation sustainable materials and services.
RAAD’s pioneering work is grounded in the principles of regenerative architecture, which merges living materials - those that possess characteristics such as growth, self-movement, and metabolism - with bioreceptive interfaces and advanced sustainable architectural methodologies. Our research aims to achieve beneficial environmental impacts that surpass Net Zero targets.
Our practice is inherently interdisciplinary and collaborative, operating at the intersection of science, design, and society. We are dedicated to designing applications that embody the first generation of regenerative architecture, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable building practices. Through our innovative approach, RAAD is setting new standards in architectural research and development, driving the future of eco-conscious design. ]
Full details: https://architectuur.kuleuven.be/regenerative-architecture-arts-design
We look forward to welcome you on our campus in the vibrant city of Gent, Belgium!
Project
Interfacing Architecture with Biology: Probiotic Surfaces, Textiles & Materials
This collaboration between BioTeC+ and RAAD explores the integration of beneficial microbes into architectural materials to create healthier living spaces. Historically, architecture prioritized sterile environments, but recent advances in microbial ecology highlight the potential of “good” bacteria to suppress pathogens—a paradigm shift termed probiotic design or microbial architecture.

• Project Title and Objectives: A clear and concise description of the proposed project, including specific aims and research questions.
• Background and Significance: A summary of the relevant literature and the significance of the research in the context of probiotic design and microbial architecture.
• Methodology: A detailed explanation of the methods and approaches that will be used to achieve the project objectives.
• Expected Outcomes: A description of the potential outcomes and impacts of the research