Mother Nature is the world’s original influencer. She’s resourceful, interconnected, and inventive. Today, with all the challenges we face, learning from nature and copying her (aka biomimicry) has become a necessity.
biomimicry
/ˌbʌɪə(ʊ)ˈmɪmɪkri/
noun
“the design and production of materials, structures, and systems that are modelled on biological entities and processes.”
While biomimicry in architecture is a modern design concept, humans have been mimicking nature for centuries. Just think about the traditional mud huts built in regions like Africa and Asia, which resemble the idea of termite mounds, or the Igloos of the arctic, that take inspiration from polar bear dens. Both types of homes use readily available materials, and implement natural, smart insulation and ventilation.
Thanks to science and technology, modern biomimicry in architecture means we can harness the skills and knowledge of biologists, architects and engineers to solve the challenges of the built environment, and make our buildings more sustainable, energy efficient, resilient and healthy.
This is how the architects and builders of the Eastgate Centre in Zimbabwe were able to take the termite mound concept to the next level visually and functionally. The Lotus Temple in India is another example of how breathtaking beautiful and functional modern biomimicry can be. The temple’s 27-leaf structure is inspired by the lotus flower and creates a beautiful, serene space with ambient light and natural ventilation.
What can biomimicry in architecture do for humanity?
While biomimicry can be the answer to some of the architectural world’s most complex problems, it could also address some of its smallest. Like health and happiness.
We live in a world where a lot of focus is placed on big, bold and beautiful but do these things within the architectural context really make humans healthier and happier?
Maybe biomimicry can help.
1. Use biomimicry to make humans healthier
Nature has long been linked to the health of humans. Buildings designed with natural airflow, green roofs and walls, natural light and natural sounds can help to reduce stress, improve air quality, and promote better sleep cycles, all of which enhance immunity, heart health, lung function, and overall well-being.
Biomimicry can help enhance health even further by:
- Mimicking the microscopic patterns of shark skin on materials to make it naturally resist bacteria, reducing the spread of infections in hospitals, schools, and public spaces without the need for excessive chemical cleaning.
- Developing self-cleaning building materials that mimic the lotus leaf’s water-repellent properties to help keep surfaces free of dirt, mold, and bacteria.
- Replacing harmful chemical glues in construction with non-toxic adhesives inspired by how mussels cling to rocks underwater, reducing exposure to pollutants that affect respiratory health.
2. Use biomimicry to make humans happier
When you feel overwhelmed where do you want to be? In a crowded mall or outside in nature by yourself? The answer is obvious, and research supports it: being surrounded by greenery, natural textures, and natural sounds can promote emotional health.
Therefore, spaces that echo nature’s forms – like flowing lines, organic shapes, and presence of light and water – make us feel happier, less anxious and more “grounded”.
Biomimicry can take this further by drawing inspiration from nature’s patterns and functionality for example:
- Designing buildings with honeycomb-like patterns to create bright, open spaces that enhance mood.
- Using structural colour, inspired by butterfly wings, to create vibrant, shimmering hues to bring joy.
- Mimicking fungal networks in urban planning to create interconnected spaces that encourage social interactions and community.
3. Use biomimicry to create spaces that are inclusive and accessible to all
People of all types of abilities use the built environment. Inclusive design is therefore a must. Did you know that 15-20% of people suffer from a form of neurodiversity such as autism, ADHD or dyslexia? According to a recent study, people with these types of sensory sensitivities find artificial lighting, synthetic fragrances and odours like cigarette smoke, as well as extreme temperatures and materials like chrome to be negative triggers whereas natural elements are calming.
Biophilic design can help accommodate diverse sensory needs, whereas biomimicry can address these concerns by:
- Modelling lighting after fireflies or deep-sea creatures to create gentle, natural-looking light that’s more inviting and relaxing.
- Mimicking how pinecones open and close in response to moisture levels, to create buildings that automatically adjust airflow, and acoustics based on environmental conditions.
- Using plant-inspired scent systems to provide scent-free pathways for people sensitive to smells.
At Veld Architects, we believe that thoughtful architecture can make the world a better place for people and nature. In our commitment to designing buildings that heal, we need to make it our priority to learn from nature and people (aka neuro-architecture), and adapt our designs accordingly.
On that note, we have some exciting news about an upcoming collaboration. Watch this space!
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Love,
xxx
Gill
