Designing the Fungal City

Among the fundamental actors in our ecosystems that are missing in ecological design and landscape architecture are mycorrhizal fungi. Their mycelia support plant growth and health and can facilitate the transfer of water, nutrients and signals between plants. Some researchers are suggesting that these entire soil-based interaction structures may also allow trees to connect underground and help foster healthy plant communities. Bridging science and design, we explore how mycorrhizal fungi in urban environments have been investigated in research and in practice in order to speculate about the role they will play in our cities in the future. Although efforts have been made in many cities to incorporate green infrastructure and sustainable design into the fabric of the city, there is still a great need for more work of this kind. Urban infrastructure has overtaken most available space, replacing what once was natural with industrial-grade construction material. How would we need to adapt design to support the health of fungal communities in the urban soil? After a thorough analysis, we conclude by suggesting novel approaches such as connecting street trees through the redesign of underground urban infrastructure. Mycorrhizal connectivity within the context of the built environment needs more exploration to ensure the health of our urban soil biota and plants.