Stabilized moss has long been used in interior design, however, you can use live moss as a facade covering. Bioreceptive concrete, a highly porous material that retains moisture, was developed at Delft University of Technology by enthusiasts.
Researchers of the Marineterrein Amsterdam Living Lab
They believe that moss can protect the structure of a building: providing absorption and retention of water in case of heavy rains, cooling through evaporation on hot days, and sound insulation. Researchers claim that moss roots, rhizoids, do not destroy the surface, but on the contrary, they strengthen the facade like glue.
"Bioreceptive moss concrete transforms dreary gray pavements into a green and living material that increases local biodiversity and provides many valuable services that nature can offer society," says Henk Yonkers, project manager and associate professor at Delft University of Technology.
Bajes Kwartier buildings. Image source: Robota
On a larger scale, bioreceptive concrete is planned to be used on the facade of the Green Tower Living Lab in the new Bijlmerbajes district of Amsterdam. The area of the former Bijlmerbajes prison is currently developing as an innovative area. And the old prison tower will be transformed into an incubator for testing the most unusual urban projects and technologies.