Bluepha BioFAB

Su Shengliang

• Architects

Bluepha BioFAB is a biomanufacturing facility located in the Binhai Coastal Industrial Park of Yancheng City, Jiangsu Province. Bluepha is dedicated to nurturing new biomaterials and molecular materials, the core product, a naturally synthesized microbial polymer known as Bluepha PHA, aims to replace plastic to create a sustainable green future.

Bluepha BioFAB is designed as a transparent and open space, utilizing experimental materials and employing light and shadow to shape the philosophical spirit of biomanufacturing.

photo_credit Su Shengliang — Su Shengliang

Before the temperature-controlled fermentation water drains away, it forms shallow ponds on the rooftop of the office building. The architecture resembles a petri dish nurturing new biomaterials. The water ripples bridge life and matter.

Life begins at the water's edge, above there are eternal laws of nature. The ascent of human technology and civilization depends on understanding and harnessing the laws of nature. So does synthetic biology.

The exhibition hall, reception room, and executive conference room protrude above the water's surface, offering a panoramic infinite view of the water and sky.

Most of the space, including the office area, meeting rooms, employee canteen, kitchen, and multipurpose hall, is submerged below the water’s surface with spatial flatness and extensive transparency. Structural elements and rooms are scattered freely like organelles allowing excellent diffused lighting. This is where scientists and engineers work every day.

The design of the pillars combines with the planting pools and printing cabinets, giving them a sculptural form with openings at the roof. The interplay of light and water ripples creates a dynamic of shadows, reminding people of their noble mission beyond daily life. In the vast wilderness, it is this sense of purpose that binds people together.

The vast and boundless surroundings of the building, while visually stunning, may evoke a sense of solitude over time. Therefore, on the south side of the building, we have created a linear courtyard that encloses a green space of pleasant scale, combining it with the factory's security wall.

Inside the courtyard, there are guards' rooms, contemplation rooms, salon lecture halls, gyms, and MEP, engagingly connecting various spaces and infusing daily work with inspiration.

Dealing with the saline-alkali land, the building is elevated by 1.2 meters, additional soil is added to the courtyard to facilitate quick tree planting. The temperature control of the building utilizes a constant water circulation system from the factory and floor air vents to fully utilize the space beneath the floor slab and release the ceiling height.