Practical Approach to Biomimicry

The following post relates to a concept written by Jeremy Faludi – sustainable design strategist and researcher – Stanford University, worked for Biomimicry institute, Project FROG

After suggesting that designers, builders and engineers have little knowledge about biology, therefore a practical approach and direct method is best, as outlined below:

1. Define the problem and it’s context


2. Find organisms with a similar problem and context – see what they do, find many divergent animals to see which has the best strategy.


3. Translate the best strategy into a buildable result

I will now try to apply this concept to the Howard Smith Wharves Site for inspiration.

1. Identifying main natural problems of the site:

• High Risk Flooding Area


• Lack of Sunlight and Ventilation


• Lack of Connection

2. Organisms which respond to these problems

Flooding:

• Ants – nest building to avoid inundation


• Polynesian Box Fruit – Case protects during years at sea


• Ground Squirrel – Dikes prevent flooding


• Otters and Crocodiles – Ear Flaps keep water out


• Beavers – Damming Principle


• Gentoo Penguins – feathers protect from water


• Beaked Sedge - Floating Mats adjust to water levels


• Reindeer – Guard Hairs repel water


• Barking Spider – Silk protects from flooding and protects water

Lack of Sunlight and Ventilation:

• Ants – air scoops providing cooling/ventilation


• Praire Dogs – Burrow shape creates ventilation


• Corals – exoskeleton absorbs UV light


• Plant Structure – maximises light absorption


• Window Plants – Crystals draw sunlight into plant

Lack of Connection:

• Cypress – Branching Pattern Enhances exchange and transport