Platinum Winner of the Architecture & Design Collection Awards 2023
Architect / Designer:
Kseniia Chernenko
Studio:
MK-A ZT
Design Team:
Michael Holzer, Maja Karska, Kseniia Chernenko
Country:
Austria
[ΛО] – Algae Obelisk – is a pioneering environmental project aimed at utilizing renewable energy sources and innovative technology to combat air pollution. This project entails the creation of a 7-meter-tall system with a metal construction and unique features, designed to serve as an air cleaner. The obelisk is constructed using sustainable materials and incorporates maximum two blocks with 8 algae panels to actively purify the air while blending aesthetics and functionality.
[ΛО] seeks to create an iconic, eco-friendly structure that raises awareness about the importance of sustainable architecture and air purification. Algae panels were utilized to capture and filter airborne pollutants, contributing to improved air quality, and reduced polycarbonate material were employed with a metallic-colored, transparent exterior to harness solar energy for algae growth and aesthetic appeal.
Structure:
Obelisk:
• A 7-meter-tall module obelisk with a sturdy metal construction.
• There are two distinct blocks of the algae panels and air purification systems, each of them can be used separately within the obelisk structure.
Algae panels:
• 4 algae panels on each block, that are easily used as a module system. The obelisks can reduce from 300 to 600 Liters of polluted air per minute, depending on the specific needs of the impurified area.
• The algae panels actively filter pollutants and CO2 and release oxygen into the atmosphere while creating a microclimate in its closest surrounding.
• Additionally, the energy, that can be generated by the algae panels, will be used to power an information screen, providing real-time information to the public and further enhancing its functionality and educational impact.
Reduced Polycarbonate exterior:
• The obelisk’s exterior is made of recycled polycarbonate, providing transparency while being colored in a metallic hue for aesthetic appeal.
• Reduced polycarbonate allows sunlight to penetrate, warming up the algae within and aiding in the photosynthesis process.
Air Purification System:
• A sophisticated air purification system integrated into the obelisk’s structure.
• The system works in conjunction with the algae panels to remove pollutants from the surrounding air.
The [ΛО] is mitigating the effects of climate change and promoting sustainability through its renewable energy utilization and air-cleaning capabilities. Its not only space efficient, especially in rapidly growing urban texture, but also has a greater impact on a local micro-ecology level than a group of trees.
[ΛО] aims to juxtapose scientific fields as well as art and sustainability to address the critical issue of air pollution. By using algae panels and solar energy in an innovative design, it will serve as a symbol of environmental responsibility and inspire communities to adopt cleaner, more sustainable technologies.