From Field to Form: Ocean Flora

A group of experts discussed the use of algae as a building material. From Field to Form is a series of events exploring the possibilities, life cycles, and architectural implications of plant- and earth-based materials. Oceans, critical ecosystems for planetary health, are gravely threatened by global industrial systems dependent on fossil fuels. Yet the ocean is also a source of possibility for the built environment, offering innovative materials for healthy buildings and the potential to remediate marine landscapes through new cultivation, harvesting, and manufacturing. Sargassum, a genus of brown macroalgae now inundating shorelines, can be compressed into masonry blocks and cement composites for construction. Seagrass has been used as roof thatch for generations in many regions. And recent studies show pressed eelgrass mats can match the thermal performance of conventional wood-fiber insulation. As seaweed farming expands globally, kelp and other macroalgae are being studied as feedstock for bioplastics and biocomposites, and for their carbon sequestration potential. From naturally occurring materials to cultivated aquatic crops, the ocean offers material pathways toward a resilient, healthy, carbon-free future on land and at sea. Organized in partnership with Healthy Materials Lab at Parsons School of Design, this event convenes experts in ocean farming and sourcing alongside manufacturers of biobased marine products and designers to discuss how we can learn from, repair, and build with the world’s oceans. Ticket information and policies Current Architectural League members receive a free ticket to this and other events throughout the year. To access your fully discounted member ticket or tickets, click "Enter promo code" in the ticket window and enter your Member Number. Visit our website to join or renew. All confirmed attendees may claim Continuing Education Units for this event. This event will not be livestreamed. By registering, you consent to receive emails from The Architectural League, Urban Omnibus, and the Healthy Materials Lab at Parsons. By attending, you grant permission for the League to capture and use photographs and/or videos of you for promotional and archival purposes, which may include but are not limited to social media, newsletters, and website content. To opt out of these conditions, please contact us before the event.