Biomimetics in architecture

Abstract

The purpose of the paper is to analyse and discuss the concept of biomimetics in contemporary architecture. Special attention is given to the attitude towards nature and environment. Biomimetics provides an information transfer from biology to technical disciplines, such as architecture, with aim to understand natural systems and processes developed through evolution, and to implement them in concepts and structures designed by human. The author proposed and applied methodology for multilevel analysis intended to check various aspects of biomimetic approach to the building perceived as a system. The notion of biomimetics is presented with regard to architecture. Multilevel theoretical model is constructed, based on 3 basic elements related to systems: structure, metabolism and skin. Specific solutions for each of these elements are distinguished and analyzed, under passive, active and hybrid operation mode. The particular examples of selected architectural objects are presented to illustrate the practical application of the research model. The author looks at relations of the building and environment, comparing them to biological relationships: parasitism, neutralism and commensalism. The discussion leads to remarkable conclusions and provokes some very interesting questions about the role of architecture. Final conclusions address the issues of innovative perception of the built environment as well as shifting baselines regarding ecosystem, climate and sustainability.