Learning from Nature for Sustainable Solutions in Architecture: Biomimetic Lightweight Structure Designs

Abstract

Recent advances in technology have enabled nature's design principles to be understood and communicated more effectively than ever before. Using nature as a mentor, the biomimetic approach is the practice of generating solutions from nature’s systems, processes and designs to solve human problems. However, although this approach is a new field in architecture, it has the potential to transform the sustainable approach in building design and construction. Hence, this article explores the potential of the biomimetic approach as a source of sustainable solutions for lightweight structures in architecture. In this research, the biomimetic approach, examples of lightweight structures in nature and how they can be applied to lightweight structures are discussed. In this context, “Shell Lace Structure, Trabeculae Pavilion, NonLin/Lin Pavilion, BUGA Fibre Pavilion, livMatS Pavilion, 3D-Printed Pavilion, Tower of Light” projects are examined as biomimetic lightweight building designs in architecture. The examples are analysed in terms of the natural model/system they refer to, the purpose for which they were built and the materials used. The analysed examples show that by learning from nature and applying the principles of nature to the built environment, aesthetic, functional, lightweight and high-strength structures can be designed. As a result, the biomimetic approach offers guiding ideas for architects to design environmentally friendly, sustainable and innovative lightweight structures that can respond to today's problems.