panos velentzas covers wooden suitcase with protective layer of mushrooms

panos velentzas covers wooden suitcase with protective layer of mushrooms
all images courtesy of panos velentzas

for the design and the development of the ‘mushroom suitcase’ by panos velentzas, the knowledge of a material found in the fungus was crucial. known as ‘mycelium’, a process which takes about 15 days renders a sturdy ingredient with little flexibility. thus, velentzas saw the potential to apply it towards a protective surface. while the interior is made of wood, the vegetation blended with timber residues and lavender seeds prevents the enclosure from breaking.

the mushroom suitcase open to show the wooden interior

an innovative lock has been also introduced to the container. the framework secures the two portions tightly together as four handles are hidden within the construction. they do not require codes of any kind as they work mechanically and are not visible when the case is closed. as a result, the system is easy to use for the owner, but may be puzzling for any strangers

graphic of the the ‘smart’ system

the suitcase in use

the mycelium is taken from the mushrooms within 15 days

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.