Light pollution is becoming an issue due to the excessive use of Artificial Light at Night (ALAN). This thesis explores the design potentials of bioluminescent algae to integrate more darkness into our urban nightscapes, with a design exploration on the TU Delft campus. The goal is to find out if bioluminescent algae can be used to design for darkness.

This research was divided into a theoretical study, a research study conducting measurements and user experience, ideation and prototyping, and user evaluations. Literature has shown that people’s perception of light is crucial for a safe and comfortable environment at night. The perception is very subjective and is influenced by various factors. The research also analysed the characteristics of bioluminescent algae and found that they have the potential to offer distinctive textures and patterns that could improve the nighttime environment.

Through measurements and user studies the current lighting environment was defined and a location for the design was chosen. This research led to the insight that a design at the location near the Aula would have the most significant impact in reducing light usage. The location offers space for an interactive and explorative design. The dimensions simple, dim, and safe showed significance and are used as handles for the ideation phase.

Following the design vision, two concepts were selected that went through prototyping, testing processes in the biolab and user evaluations. The testing process resulted in choosing the sturdy transparent container types that created more light output while interacting. Based on the insights of this research the prototype was translated to a final design. The goal of the design is to show how bioluminescent algae can be integrated for design for darkness, which was validated with the user.

In conclusion, the project shows that the material performs well in dark environments and the promise of bioluminescent algae as a means for design for darkness is recognised. Further exploration and applications are encouraged, since there are steps needed to re-introduce darkness. A meaningful application using the material can be made to promote darkness to help people see the positive aspects of darkness and take steps towards darker nightscapes.