Mapping Plant Microclimates on Building Envelope Using Environmental Analysis Tools

Abstract

Can we build our cities not only for humans but also for all living systems? How can we consider other species occupants of the built environment? Planning cities as an element of the natural domain can reshape our relationship with nature and help redefine sustainability in architecture. Although current design strategies of reducing energy use does not rectify past/continuing im-balances in the natural environment. Landscape architect John Tillman Lyle expanded the regenerative design concept based on a range of ecological concepts. The environment's complexity, and the urge to use resources smartly, encouraged him to think about architecture and the environment as a whole system. John Lyle's regenerative design strategies scaffold a conceptual framework of treating the building as part of the landscape. Environmental tools such as Ladybug can map out the different conditions surrounding the building's envelope. This information can assist in selecting and populating a building façade with suitable plant species. The framework presents the building as a feature in the landscape, creating microclimatic conditions for various plant habitats. This conceptual workflow has the potential to become a tool to include regenerative principles in the urban context.