self-nourishing crystal planters by maria bujalska

 self-nourishing crystal planters by maria bujalska
all images courtesy of maria bujalska

‘crystal planters’ by san francisco-based maria bujalska, challenges the archetype of a planter; a static container for a living thing. here, the plant is an integral part of the holder as the two elements become an inseparable, constantly changing system. functioning only when a seedling is inside it, the exterior structure is devoted to the organism, where it provides a unique growing environment. each of the ‘crystal planters’ is made from a sheet of industrial felt, sew and steam-formed into a three dimensional shape. it is then subjected to a crystal forming solution, which finishes the design by curing the felt and creating individual surface textures. feeding from with this slowly dissolving fertilizer with each watering, roots gradually grow into the felted fibers. this continuously developing home – despite following the same process – always has a different appearance.

crystal planters are made using fully natural materials wool felt, cotton treads, organic food coloring

the plant and its holder become one element

crystals grow around felted fibers, reinforcing bottom of the planters and creating unique texture.

crystal planters in context

detail of the planter’s interior

roots gradually grow into the felted fibers.

process of construction

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