Design That Breathes
A Myco-Innovation by local designer Kalinda Chen
Can furniture do more than just look good? Can it feel good, for you, your family, and the planet?
Local designer Kalinda Chen considered this when she created her thesis project, Celia, an air filtration system that harnesses the bioremediating properties of oyster mushroom mycelium to challenge conventional approaches to pollution and foster deeper connections between people and the environment.
The project was recently exhibited at Future Impact 3: Design Nation during Milan Design Week 2025, and again at Singapore Design Week 2025, as part of a showcase celebrating socially engaged, future-facing design practices. Milli, a pioneer of mycelium design, was delighted to support the project by contributing mycelium material samples for the exhibition.
Why Mycelium?
Kalinda tells us that, growing up in urban Singapore, she often felt disconnected from the natural ecosystems that sustain us. Fungi captivated her with their quiet complexity. “Often invisible yet vital, they decompose, regenerate, and connect,” she says, “[They] form the backbone of ecosystems. Their strangeness, beauty, and untapped potential were deeply inspiring.” That made mycelium the perfect collaborator for a project about cleansing and healing, both literally and symbolically.
But Celia isn’t simply a superficial homage to mushrooms. Kalinda’s design choices are rooted in an understanding and respect for natural systems. “The form is directly inspired by oyster mushrooms. Its ribbed surface isn’t just a visual reference, it alludes to airflow and echoes the natural pattern of mushroom gills, blending function with organic beauty.”
Designing with, Not Against, Nature
Kalinda finds that environmental responsibility isn’t a creative limitation; it’s a driver of innovation. The material’s own behavior and character is an asset that guides the form, not something to overcome.
“In this way, sustainability doesn’t compromise aesthetics; it becomes the foundation for it.”
This approach, however, is not without difficulty. Kalinda says that one of the biggest challenges of working with mycelium is embracing unpredictability. We are reminded that, unlike conventional industrial materials, living mycelium is sensitive to its environment - temperature, humidity, and competing microorganisms. Working with it requires a mindset shift, from control to collaboration.
Despite the challenges, she finds the process of working with mycelium to be deeply rewarding. It pushes her to stay curious, keep experimenting, and remain hands-on. “Working with mycelium forced me to slow down and listen, which is something rare in fast-paced design processes, but essential when designing with living systems.”
See Celia at the National Museum of Singapore, Stamford Gallery, from 11 September to 2 November 2025.
By Laurie Thompson, with collaboration from Kalinda Chen and Cheryl Suah.
