furf's mycelium facade for crema lab café in brazil resembles ice cream cone

Furf Design Studio unveils innovative facade for café in Curitiba

Furf Design Studio introduces the world’s first mycelium facade for Crema Lab in Curitiba, blending sustainable architecture with innovative material use. The café facade, inspired by the texture of an ice cream cone, is constructed from biodegradable mycelium panels developed in collaboration with Brazilian scientists and the startup Mush. These panels, made from agricultural waste, absorb CO2 during production and offer thermal and acoustic insulation, marking a significant advancement in eco-friendly building practices. The panels are treated for durability, ensuring long-term resistance to weather conditions, and represent a pioneering use of biotechnological materials in commercial architecture.

all images courtesy of Furf Design Studio

Crema Lab blends Eco-Conscious design and Playful Interiors

Crema Lab | Gelato + Café + Experiences, founded by chef gelatiere Harlen Tessari Brandão, offers a state-of-the-art space where gelato is produced on-site to meet high standards of quality and innovation. Furf Design Studio’s contribution extends beyond the facade, incorporating hybrid furniture designs like the ‘Cavalinho’ benches. These multifunctional pieces feature two seating positions with integrated side tables, blending robust metal construction with ergonomic design. The playful form evokes an abstract creature, adding a whimsical touch to the café’s interior.

This project exemplifies a new direction in commercial architecture, where environmental responsibility, aesthetics, and brand identity are intertwined. The use of mycelium not only reduces the carbon footprint but also creates a unique visual and tactile experience. The design highlights how sustainable practices can redefine both architectural and branding strategies, positioning Crema Lab as a forward-thinking, eco-conscious establishment.

the world’s first mycelium facade at Crema Lab is a sustainable architecture project by Furf

inspired by the texture of an ice cream cone, the facade is crafted from biodegradable mycelium panels

Furf along with Mush. utilize agricultural waste to create biodegradable mycelium panels

the eco-friendly facade provides thermal and acoustic insulation

Furf’s design also includes hybrid benches, offering multifunctional seating with integrated side tables

the mycelium panels are treated for durability, ensuring long-term resistance to weather conditions

project info:

name: Crema Lab Facade
architect: Furf Design Studio | @furfdesignstudio

interiors: UZa. design e arquitetura | @uzadesign

mycelium facade: Mush. | @mush.eco

client: Crema Lab | @cremalabgelato

location: Curitiba, Brazil

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom