A researcher in Western Australia hopes microalgae‑based architecture could soon become a reality for the state.

Microalgae‑based architecture is gaining global attention as a sustainable design solution. Microalgae are reported to deliver a range of environmental benefits, most notably through carbon capture and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. 

PhD student Amin Mirabbasi, of Murdoch University’s new Algae Innovation Hub, believes its ability to absorb heat could also be a gamechanger for sustainable architecture. 

Mirabbasi has spent three years designing microalgae-filled photobioreactors, which can be incorporated into a variety of builds such as houses, apartments, mining dongas and urban designs.

“Because the microalgae culture (water medium) absorbs heat and filters solar radiation, these photobioreactors can significantly reduce indoor overheating, as our tests showed,” he says. “In WA’s climate, that means less reliance on air conditioning during peak hours, which translates to real energy and cost savings.”

Mirabbasi believes WA’s climate offers ideal growing conditions for microalgae, making it a largely untapped opportunity for the state.

“Compared with colder European and southern Australian climates, Perth presents negligible freezing risk and high solar availability, which supports microalgae cultivation; however, overheating control is essential,” he says.

Test designs for mining dongas

A focus of Mr Mirabbasi’s research has been designing prefabricated mining accommodation units – known as dongas – that are purpose-built for harsh environments in rural areas.

The microalgae photobioreactors installed on the dongas act as a passive solar control system, shading the building and absorbing heat, while simultaneously generating oxygen and purifying the air.

Bio-urban designs

Mirabbasi’s research has included bio-urban designs, such as bus stops, shelters, garages and artistic streetscapes. Many of his designs incorporate tubular photobioreactors which could be positioned along walkways, building exteriors and shopping districts to create visually engaging public spaces. These can be fitted with LED lighting to illuminate the green culture at night.

“The beauty of these biodesigns is they combine science and nature in a way people can see and feel,” Mirabbasi says. “Watching the microalgae grow, bubble and respond to light creates a biophilic experience that draws people in, connects them to nature and quietly reinforces sustainability awareness in everyday spaces.”

His Urban Algae Tree demonstrates how microalgae technology can replicate nature. The tree-like prototype provides shade from the sun by absorbing heat, captures rainwater and operates self-sufficiently by using its own harvested solar energy.

The tree can hold 1500 litres of culture medium and is designed to produce up to 700 kilograms (kg) of oxygen per year, while removing approximately 1000kg of CO₂ per year.

Sights set on real-world application

Having nearly completed his PhD, Mirabbasi said he is now focused on testing his ideas in the real world.

“For me, this research isn’t about staying on the drawing board,” he says. “It’s about turning ideas into tangible outcomes – designs that can be built, tested and implemented in real settings where they can genuinely make a difference.”

Renders supplied.

Related: Read about the algae-based window decals Jessie French designed for Aesop in 2024.