What is biomimetic architecture?
Biomimetics is a current of intelligent design that provides greater efficiency and functionality in environments
Unsplash image of Paula Prekopova
Biomimetics is a science that studies the creative ways that nature finds to adapt, grow and live. It is an area that uses ecosystems and organisms as a source of inspiration to find solutions and alternatives to develop useful features for human beings.
This science is already considered the future of design, inspiring architects to create projects based on the biological structures of nature and their functions. Considered a contemporary philosophical current, biomimetic architecture unites scientific research with social concepts, whose imitation is not literal, but structural and strategic.
What is biomimetic architecture?
Animals, insects, plants and minerals have inspired thousands of solutions. Through them, it is possible to observe how life behaves, renews itself and adapts to countless climatic variations and alterations caused by human beings.
Biomimicry proves that, in addition to stunning landscapes and infinity of resources, nature has several solutions that can contribute to the development of sustainable architecture, helping to create lasting projects. When joined to science, biomimetics contributes to the quality of life of society as a whole.
Thus, biomimetic architecture is a constructive methodology, in which projects are developed based on the analysis of natural structures. In other words, the current draws on nature to create more sustainable and modern buildings. With this, it is possible to revolutionize design, construction methods and the way an industry works.
According to a study by Roger Williams University, the main ways to use biomimicry in architecture are: architecture that imitates the functions of nature, architecture that imitates the forms of nature and architecture that imitates the parts of nature.
Architecture that imitates the functions of nature is one that employs one or several functions from examples of nature in the architectural design. These examples use functions to adapt to the location, climate and energy consumption, without harming or polluting the surrounding environment.
Architecture that mimics the shapes of nature extracts structural properties built into the design of natural shapes. Natural structures have gone through many years of evolution. They have a level of perfection that involves "trial and error". Structures still alive today represent nature's successes. These natural examples provide a range of innovative materials and structural shapes that have the ability to cope with climatic and environmental force. Such "superior designs" are crucial to intelligent architectural development.
Architecture that imitates parts of nature, on the other hand, focuses on extracting structural, formal or functional properties from examples of nature, for application in building components. This method can be used to replace the coating of buildings and mechanical systems, or it can simply be applied as an additional layer to the existing system. The goal is to raise the construction performance, resulting in efficiency and better adaptation to the natural environment.
What is the importance of biomimetic architecture?
Civil construction and industry are sectors that still generate a lot of waste in our society. Furthermore, many organizations are not concerned about this issue and dispose of waste generated incorrectly.
Those who do not adopt sustainable policies lose credibility in the market, as customers are increasingly demanding and concerned about the environmental cause. Therefore, this attitude does not help in the preservation of nature and influences the future of its management. Therefore, biomimetic architecture is a current of thought that should be part of your strategic planning.
When architecture imitates the functionalities of nature, it is possible to leave common sense, guarantee the progress of society and respect the natural space around us.
What are the competitive advantages of biomimetic architecture?
Notoriety gain
Projects that value biomimetic architecture become references in their regions and gain prominence in the news, attracting a greater number of clients and, consequently, notoriety. Therefore, it is very important to apply sustainable measures, such as biomimicry.
Optimization of financial investments
All entrepreneurs want to increase profits and reduce expenses, yet few know how to make these goals a reality. It is necessary to analyze the opportunities available in the market and adapt them to the services provided by your business.
In many cases, the path is not always easy. By opting for the degradation of nature as the cheapest and simplest process, you open loopholes for countless problems. So keep in mind that there are fines, penalties and embargoes for those who don't respect nature. In addition to financial expenses, you contribute to the depletion of our planet's natural resources and put all existing life forms at risk.
In addition, the biomimetic architecture, with dimensioned structures, encourages the improvement of your financial budget. If you develop natural lighting and ventilation projects, for example, it is possible to reduce energy costs. This leaves more resources for you to invest in other areas.
Ensures sustainability
All the points discussed converge to a single point: sustainability. Today, it is no longer possible to foster growth without thinking about the consequences of our actions. Human activities can only be carried out when there is risk control and planning to compensate for any damage to nature.
By practicing biomimetic architecture, you create a harmonious relationship between the human being and the environment, emphasizing the importance of an ecologically correct and more efficient society.
