"TreeSoil is a robotic shelter designed to create microclimates that support the early growth of young trees. Developed at the Technion's Material Topology Research Lab (MTRL) in collaboration with the Tree Lab at the Weizmann Institute of Science, the project integrates architecture, material science, and plant biology to explore how design can actively assist ecological regeneration. The project draws on ancient agricultural techniques used in arid landscapes, where stone or earthen enclosures shield crops and saplings from wind, sun, and evaporation."
"TreeSoil reinterprets these methods through computational design and fabrication, transforming soil into a , interlocking system that mediates between technology and ecology. Each structure is composed of modular bricks produced through large-scale robotic extrusion. The design uses local climatic data, including solar radiation, wind patterns, and humidity, to optimize conditions for the sapling at its center. Its porous geometry enables airflow and shading, while the thermal mass of the earthen material helps regulate temperature and moisture, supporting root establishment and early growth."
"The material system combines locally sourced soil with sand, clay, and bio-based binders derived from cellulose and organic fibers. In some prototypes, biochar and other waste-derived nutrients are added to enhance soil stability and structural integrity. The mixture is tested for rheological, mechanical, and erosion properties to ensure printability and environmental compatibility. Components are fabricated using a KUKA KR50 robotic arm and a WASP LDM XXXL extrusion system, built layer by layer, naturally dried, and assembled on-site without adhesives."
TreeSoil creates localized microclimates to support early tree growth by combining architectural design, material science, and plant biology. Design draws on ancient arid-land enclosures and uses computational design to transform soil into an interlocking modular system. Structures comprise modular bricks produced by large-scale robotic extrusion and are optimized with local climate data—solar radiation, wind, and humidity—to provide airflow, shading, and thermal mass regulation. Materials mix locally sourced soil, sand, clay, and bio-based binders, with optional biochar and waste-derived nutrients. Components are printed, naturally dried, assembled on-site without adhesives, and biodegrade over time, returning nutrients to the soil.
Read at designboom | architecture & design magazine
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