10 Examples of Biomimicry Architecture
Introduction to Biomimicry Architecture
What is Biomimicry?
Biomimicry architecture involves designing buildings that draw inspiration from forms, processes, and systems found in nature.
Innovative design solutions and sustainable strategies are created by mimicking the characteristics of plants and ecosystems. Resulting in architecture that is innovative, environmentally friendly and energy-efficient.
Biomimicry architecture aims to create buildings that harmonise with the environment, maximise natural resources and enhance occupant well-being.
Importance and Benefits of Biomimicry in Architecture
In an age where sustainability is the most important factor in architectural design. Biomimicry is looked upon to create architecture that maximises energy efficiency and is responsive to the environment.
Biomimicry has inspired incredible architecture, in its form and function. By studying nature, architects can develop solutions that reduce energy consumption, enhance comfort, and minimise environmental impact.
We’ve carefully selected 10 of the best examples of biomimicry architecture to inspire you! Make sure you bookmark this page for later use!
Examples of Biomimicry Principles in Architecture
Mimicking structural systems found in plants and trees.
Replicating energy-harnessing methods found in ecosystems.
Designing architecture that is reactionary to the environment much like the techniques found in certain plants.
Designing architectural form inspired by nature to maximise renewable energy and create quality spaces.
Image courtesy of edenproject
1. The Eden Project, UK
The Eden Project's iconic dome structure was inspired by the formation of soap bubbles. This direct inspiration from nature allowed the structure to achieve maximum strength with minimal materials.
The geodesic domes were constructed with a hexagonal and pentagonal structural system. Due to its lightweight and load-bearing optimisation, the domes span a great distance.
Essentially the dome structure creates a large greenhouse that harnesses natural energy and provides a carefully controlled environment for a range of diverse plant species.
The Eden Project promotes sustainability by educating visitors on environmental issues and showcasing innovative agricultural practices.
Image courtesy of livinspaces
2. Eastgate Centre, Zimbabwe
The Eastgate Centre's design mimics the self-cooling system found in termite mounds, using natural ventilation to regulate temperature.
The building's ventilation strategy utilises a series of vents and chimneys to circulate air. This natural system drastically reduces the need for air conditioning and reduces energy costs by up to 90%.
Occupants enjoy a comfortable indoor climate year-round and reduced energy costs.
Image courtesy of fosterandpartners
3. The Gherkin, London
Inspired by marine organisms, the Gherkin's distinctive shape reduces wind deflection and increases structural stability.
The double-skin facade allows for natural ventilation, reducing the building's reliance on artificial cooling and heating systems.
The modern design blends aesthetics with functionality and has become an iconic part of London's skyline.
Image courtesy of jeannouvel
4. One Central Park, Sydney
One Central Park features stunning vertical gardens that blanket the building's façade in draping and climbing plants. The green wall concept was inspired by the way plants grow on cliffs and trees.
The building biomimicry also utilises natural light by incorporating heliostat mirrors to direct sunlight into the shaded public atrium and solar panels for energy generation.
Residents benefit from improved air quality and connection to nature, while the building contributes to urban biodiversity and reduces the heat.
Image courtesy of alan karchmer
5. Milwaukee Art Museum, USA
The museum's iconic brise soleil was inspired by a bird's wing.
This stunning piece of nature-inspired architecture was created by a series of large structural ribs that are moveable, opening and closing to control sunlight and temperature.
This sunshade system helps to manage solar gain, reducing the need for artificial lighting and cooling.
The dynamic architecture not only enhances the museum's energy efficiency but also creates captivating spaces and experiences for visitors.
Image courtesy of studiogang
6. Aqua Tower, Chicago, by Studio Gang
The Aqua Tower's undulating façade owes its inspiration to the rippling patterns in water. Creating a unique design while providing functional balcony areas.
The ripple effect design reduces wind loads and lowers energy consumption through the strategic placement of vertical outdoor spaces.
The building's green roofs and terraces provide habitats for local wildlife, creating a connection between nature and the urban environment.
Image courtesy of architonic
7. BIQ House, Germany
The BIQ House features a unique bioreactive façade that uses microalgae to generate renewable energy. The façade also provides dynamic shading, thermal insulations and noise mitigation.
The microalgae used in the facades are cultivated in glass panels to produce biomass that can be converted into energy, contributing to the building's overall sustainability.
This biomimicry design showcases the potential of integrating biological systems with the use of new technology into architecture for energy production and climate control.
Image courtesy of arupsport
8. Beijing National Stadium, China
The stadium's intricate steel lattice structure is inspired by the structure of a bird's nest, providing both strength and a unique architectural design that distributes weight evenly.
Built for the 2008 Olympics, the stadium continues to serve as a cultural and sporting venue, symbolising innovation and biomimicry in architecture.
Image courtesy of archdaily
9. California Academy of Sciences, USA
The academy's living roof provides an area of 37,000 sqm for native plants to promote biodiversity. The perimeter of the roof is flat and becomes undulated towards the centre, mimicking natural landscapes.
The moisture held within the living roof's soil cools the building internally, relieving the need for air conditioning, reducing energy costs and providing a habitat for local wildlife.
Image courtesy of barbabys
10. Lotus Temple, India
The Lotus Temple's design is inspired by the lotus flower and has become an icon of biomimicry in modern architecture.
The temple's structure is comprised of 27 ‘leaves’ that are designed to promote natural ventilation and light, creating a serene environment.
As a place of worship open to all, the Lotus Temple embodies the principles of unity and peace, drawing millions of visitors annually.
Conclusion
Biomimicry is an architecture principle adopted by many to discover sustainable design solutions and create a connection between people and nature.
New technology allows for advancements in biomimicry further increasing innovation and new sustainability methods.
By seeking inspiration from nature, architects can create buildings that are functional, beautiful, and environmentally responsible.
FAQs relating to 10 Examples of Biomimicry Architecture
What are the main principles of biomimicry?
The main principles of biomimicry include emulating nature's forms, structures, and ecosystems to create sustainable and efficient architecture.
This involves understanding and applying the strategies found in nature to create sustainable solutions and design innovative architecture.
How does biomimicry benefit the environment?
Biomimicry benefits the environment by promoting energy-efficient designs, reducing waste, and integrating harmoniously with natural ecosystems.
By mimicking natural processes, buildings can minimise their ecological footprint and contribute to greater environmental sustainability.