samuel wilkinson: biome terrarium

climate conditions in samuel wilkinson’s ‘biome’ terrarium are controlled via smartphone or iPad

the work of london-based designer samuel wilkinson, ‘biome’ is a flora terrarium whose climate conditions, water level, and nutrients are controlled via an application for smartphones and iPads. low-energy lighting built into the top of the terrarium can replicate sunlight, while the temperature and other conditions are likewise viewable and manipulatable via the application.

wilkinson likens the device to a ‘live tamagotchi’, reflecting:

‘the idea promotes ‘digital downtime’ by finding an alternative use for smartphones and encouraging their owners to consider a slower life. the control and nurturing of a real mini eco-system takes patience and care, contrasting with the immediacy of messaging or tweeting that is so characteristic of the smartphone generation.‘

view of the device in use

the terrarium features a low-energy lighting system capable of replicating sunlight

3/4 top view

detail view

conceptual drawing

digital rendering of the biome