Mission
ABAC is a non-profit association dedicated to advancing the understanding of biotechnologies in architecture and construction through cultural, educational, and research-oriented exchange. In a context of accelerating environmental change and growing material constraints, ABAC investigates how biological processes and living material systems can inform more resilient, relational, and responsible approaches to the built environment.
Founded at ETH Zurich, ABAC brings together researchers, designers, and practitioners committed to expanding the role of biotechnology in the material and spatial disciplines. Operating at the intersection of scientific research, cultural knowledge, and design practice, the association creates platforms for dialogue and experimentation, connecting emerging biotechnological innovations with architectural, material, and societal questions through collaboration, rapid prototyping, and real-world partnerships.
1
Undestanding
workshops
lectures
on-site visits
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Skills
material research
building technologies
science knowledge transfer
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Transfer
open science labs
exhibitions
interdisciplinary roundtables
The problem
As the bioeconomy accelerates, driven by advances in biotechnology, materials science, and distributed modes of production, the built environment faces the challenge of translating these developments beyond laboratory and industrial settings. Architecture and construction must critically engage with these transformations, addressing environmental impact while rethinking material agency, production systems, and long-term stewardship
Approach
ABAC brings together actors from academia, industry, design practice, policymaking, and the cultural sector through symposia, hands-on working sessions, and public programs. These formats translate scientific research and technological developments into accessible, critical, and spatially grounded discussions.
Over time, ABAC also engages in collaborative research development with academic and professional partners, and policy making contributing to long-term reflections on sustainable and regenerative futures for the built environment.