Rooting

Rooting is a modular tile system for outdoor flooring. Its striking design is based on algorithms that create patterns found in nature. Rooting permits the growth of plants, grasses and mosses and was developed by AATB in collaboration with Atelier Luma / Luma Arles 2018–2020.

Rooting is an extensive family of concrete slabs where half of the volume is filled with soil to allow plants, grasses and mosses to grow. The back of “Rooting” is pierced by large and small holes like a good Swiss cheese. This permeable design allows water to drain away while allowing plants to take root.

There are three different types of tiles: core, transitional and perimeter tiles: They can be lined up seamlessly, and each module can be rotated 90 degrees to match neighbouring modules. This offers flexibility to cover variable areas with a non-repeating pattern to create unique spaces, terraces and pathways. And, not to forget: “Rooting” complies with general accessibility regulations and standards.

The “Rooting” pattern is based on the "Reaction Diffusion" algorithm, which is responsible for pattern formation in nature, such as animal hides and skins or shells. AATB has developed a software that uses the same algorithm for this purpose and makes it possible to grow your own patterns–different parameters produce different patterns.

“Rooting” was developed by AATB in collaboration with Atelier Luma / Luma Arles 2018-2020 and is nominated for the Swiss Design Awards 2021. Rooting will be presented to the public for the first time at the Design Biennale Zurich.