“The Fabbrica dell’Aria 2.0 Experiment. Nature as Technology” at the Venice Architecture Biennale 2025

As part of the GENS Public Programme of the 19th International Architecture Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia, the workshop “The Fabbrica dell’Aria 2.0 Experiment. Nature as Technology” was held at the Speakers’ Corner in the Corderie dell’Arsenale. The initiative, promoted by PNAT (Plant Neurobiology and Architecture Team) with the support of A2A, Ottagono, and Ricehouse, explored the intersection between nature, technology, and well-being, offering innovative approaches to healthier and more sustainable living.

During the talk, attended by Stefano Mancuso, co-founder of PNAT together with architect Antonio Girardi; Camilla Pandolfi, CEO and co-founder of PNAT; Tiziana Monterisi, CEO and co-founder of Ricehouse; Marco Coggi, Head of Group Real Estate at A2A; and Mattia Bedin, General Manager of Ottagono Green Architecture, the results of the bio-filtration experiment for indoor air purification using the "Fabbrica dell’Aria" device were presented. The discussion illustrated its possible applications alongside new bio-inspired construction technologies and sustainable materials for the future of living.

Fabbrica dell’Aria: a “breathing biomachine”

The installation and scientific experiment "Fabbrica dell’Aria", designed by architect Antonio Girardi, is a tangible example of how plants and bio-inspired technologies can improve air quality in indoor spaces.

The octagonal structure, made of sustainable and recyclable materials, serves as a biophilic laboratory that harnesses the purifying power of plants through the patented Stomata® system. This system enhances the natural action of plants by channeling outdoor air into a glass chamber where beneficial microbial communities and roots break down and absorb pollutants before the air reaches the leaves. The result is a healthier indoor environment, capable of reducing harmful substances such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, fine particulate matter, and mold.

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An innovative solution for healthier and more sustainable indoor spaces

The innovative character of  "Fabbrica dell’Aria" also lies in its sustainability: the entire structure is made of recyclable stainless steel and eco-friendly coatings produced by Ricehouse, which uses rice husks mixed with hydrated lime. Thanks to advanced sensors, visitors can monitor the purification process in real time and verify the scientific effectiveness of the system, which—according to internationally standardized tests—has been shown to eliminate over 70% of indoor pollutants. The technology has potential applications in offices, schools, and hospitals. The stand-alone version presented at the Biennale can reach air flow rates of up to 170 m³/h, offering an efficient and accessible solution to improve air quality in enclosed spaces.

Starting at the end of 2025, the experiment will continue under real conditions at A2A’s headquarters.

>>>  Read also about the second event in the series of meetings organized by Construction Futures Research Lab, promoted by Fondamentale - the construction supply chain, at the 2025 Architecture Biennale

Cover image: © Giulio Boem, courtesy of La Biennale di Venezia