Biomimicry in architecture (2nd ed.) (original) (raw)

Intelligent Buildings International, 2017

Abstract

This is a splendid book which fires the imagination and inspires creative thought. Biomimetics looks to Nature to see how biology has dealt with the functional challenges that face sustainable architectural design today. The author in his words – believes this approach offers one of the best sources of solutions that will allow us to create a positive future and make the shift from the industrial age to the ecological age of humankind. In eight chapters seven are devoted to answering questions about efficient structures; manufacturing materials; zero-waste systems; managing water; controlling the thermal environment; lessons from biology about light and powering buildings. The eighth chapter brings all this knowledge together into a synthesis with a concluding commentary on what does biomimicry mean for people. These chapters are a rich source of knowledge and amplified by notes and further reading at the end of the book. The book presentation is excellent with 147 figures most of them in colour which makes the book an even more enjoyable read and also a source of wonder at Nature’s way of dealing with effective, economic and optimised solutions which also are very beautiful in concept and are stunning visually. The author expresses his ideas clearly and succinctly. Not only knowledge but many case studies to demonstrate the effectiveness of biomimicry are given. His argument for much more consideration of biomimetic architecture is powerful and well made. This is a book for us all to read. Governments, local authorities and designers from all spheres not only architecture should value the considerable values this approach has to offer the world at many different scales and levels.

Derek Clements-Croome hasn't uploaded this paper.

Let Derek know you want this paper to be uploaded.

Ask for this paper to be uploaded.