3D Printed Benches Grow Moss as You Sit

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May 24, 2026 News 9962

Dutch artist Joris Laarman's 3D printed SYMBIO benches are on display in New York. These benches are not just for sitting—they also "grow" moss, embodying a design that blends concrete with life.

Dutch artist Joris Laarman, who previously co-designed the 3D printed steel bridge in Amsterdam, recently brought his SYMBIO series of outdoor benches to the Friedman Benda gallery in New York. The exhibition runs through the end of July 2026.

Unlike typical artworks, these 3D printed benches invite visitors to sit on them and touch them. What makes them even more special is their design for environmental interaction—their pebble-like surfaces feature geometric textures coated with a bioactive substrate specifically formulated to encourage the growth of moss and lichen. From a distance, the concrete appears to glow green from within.

The geometric pattern is inspired by the "reaction-diffusion model" proposed by British mathematician Alan Turing. The gallery describes it as symbolizing a symbiotic relationship between nature and architecture, computation and craftsmanship.

Also on display are other works by Laarman, including four pieces from the Ply Loop series of furniture. Using sustainable materials, digital design, and handcrafting techniques, he pushes the possibilities of plywood to new heights.

Laarman's work reflects an emerging trend in design—one that values ecology as much as novelty and innovation. Similarly, French artist Raphaël Emine uses ceramic 3D printing to create houses for insects and moss; researcher Dan Parker 3D prints bird nests from fungal materials; and Zaha Hadid Architects has 3D printed artificial reefs at Hong Kong Ocean Park to help restore marine habitats.