Is biomimicry a valuable design solution for sustainable architecture?

Is biomimicry a valuable design solution for sustainable architecture?

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Is biomimicry a valuable design solution for sustainable architecture?

A Dissertation submitted to the University of Huddersfield in partial fulfilment of the Bachelor of Arts in Architecture with Honours

By Katarzyna Maskowicz u1577539

Tutor: Carl Meddings Department of Architecture & 3D Design School of Art, Design and Architecture The University of Huddersfield 2017/2018

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1.1 Abstract

‘one is never too old to unlearn bad habits’

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Front page Red ant on mushroom Fakhriannur, R. (2016) Figure 1.1.1 Baby Kingfisher diving into water for food (Pinimgcom, 2018)

Acknowledgments

I would like to thank my tutor, Carl Meddings, for his guidance and support. His encouragement and knowledge was truly appreciated in this journey of learning.

Furthermore, to my mother, for her constant and unwavering support. Her strength and guidance was undoubtedly the spirit which brought me to this point in my studies and in life. I couldn’t possible express my gratitude enough.

And to Campbell, who sacrificed his time to provide advice and guidance with selfless commitment.

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Contents Chapter 1 1.1 Abstract ……………………………………………………………………………......3 1.2 Introduction………………………………………………………………………….…8 1.3 Defining biomimicry………………………………………………………………….10 1.4 Aim and objectives………………………………………………………………..….11 1.5 Literature review…………………………………………………………………...…12

Chapter 2 Case studies 2.1 Eastgate Centre…………………………………………………………………….13 2.2 Mobius Project……………………………………………………………………….19 2.3 Kalundborg Eco-Industrial Project………………………………………………….24

Chapter 3 Examples 3.1 The Shadow Pavilion……………………………………………………….………29 3.2 One Ocean, Thematic Pavilion……………………………………………………33

Chapter 4 4.1 Conclusion……………………………………………………………………..……37 References………………………………………………………………………………38 Image references………………………………………………………………….……41 6

List of Figures Baby Kingfisher diving into water for food……………………………………………..………………………………..…2 Eastgate Centre…………………………………………………………………………………………………..………....11 Termite mound……………………………………………………..……………………………………………………..…15 Eastgate Centre……………………………………………………………………..………………………………………15 Heat circulation in a room and termite hill……………………………………………………..………………………….17 Heat exchange night vs day…………………………………………………………………………..……………………17 The Mobius project……………………………………………………………………………………..………….......……19 Anaeobic digester cycle…………………………………………………………………………………..…………...……21 Mobius project location and CGI of scheme…………………………………………………..……………………….…21 Interior of De Kas restaurant looking into Greenhouse…………………………………………..…………………..…23 External view of De Kas…………………………………………………………………………..……………………..…23 Greenhouse of De Kas…………………………………………………………………..…………………………………23 De Kas restaurant……………………………………………………………………………..……………………………23 Kalundborg Eco-Industrial Park………………………………………………………………..………………….………24 Industrial Eco-System of Kalundborg………………………………………………………..……………………………26 Industrial Eco-System of Kalundborg………………………………………………………..……………………………26 The Shadow Pavilion…………………………………………………………………………..……………………………29 Southern Magnolia leaf…………………………………………………………………………..…………………………30 Illustration of The Shadow Pavilion………………………………………………………………..………………………30 Looking outside from the interior of the Shadow Pavilion………………………………………..………………..……31 Shadow Pavilion view form the back…………………………………………………………………..……………….…32 Close up of Shadow Pavilion…………………………………………………………………………..…………………..32 One Ocean, Thematic Pavilion…………………………………………………..……………………………………...…33 Strelitzia reginae………………………………………………………..………………………………………...…………35 Strelitzia reginae with a bird perched on it causing it to reveal its anther as the petals open backwards……..………………………………………………………………………………….……………………35 The lamellas of the Thematic Pavilion……………………………………. ………………………………...……………35 Thematic Pavilion rising from the ocean………………………………..……………………………………..…………36 One Ocean, Thematic Pavilion………………..…………………………………………………………..………………36 7

1.2 Introduction

This project will explore biomimicry in architecture. Focus will be applied on how biomimicry can be applied in the design process. There will be a study of its current utilization in order to derive its success or failure.

Biomimicry presents the opportunity to use natural systems, forms and elements to improve on man-made designs and technologies. By sourcing existing solutions in biology from relevant environments, they can create appropriate systems for designs which optimise buildings and technologies. The organic systems which, by means such as natural selection, have been improved and developed by nature for over 3.8 billion years, providing a plethora of alternative and improved strategies to address the failings of man-made design. Architects can apply this information provided by nature on both micro and macro scaled projects. (Pawlyn, 2016) In this project; five biomimetic buildings are examined to determine the success of biomimicry in their design. This project will consider whether biomimicry is a solution to architectural design to solve obstacles in form, energy, materials, and waste management which are sustainable, economical, and environmentally friendly or is it a redundant strategy.

The application of biomimicry will then be explored at different scales, to evaluate the degree at which it could be applied; if is has potential to be used in the design of entire cities, in order to create a manmade ecosystem. By having integrated buildings; symbiotic systems can be created in a manner similar as to what we find in nature. This provides the advantage of sustainable energy, zero waste systems(as near to zero as can be done), and environmentally friendly materials. Ideally Architects would want to design in such a way that nothing works independently but relies on one another for efficiency, for finding the path for maximum output with minimum energy and waste.

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However, this is considering biomimicry in an idealised sense. It is possible that in this study it will be found that biomimicry is not practical. If biomimicry is so far an unsuccessful system, the writer will assess what approach is needed to improve and develop this system, or should it be disregarded all together.

Is biomimicry just a idealistic idea which truly cannot be achieved and the systems that they are trying to mimic are in fact too complex and the level detail is beyond their reach to achieve (with our current technology)? The investigation of different buildings which have applied biomimetic principles will clarify this.

The application of biomimicry can be taken from a micro level (using one aspect of a natural system to mimic) to a macro level (such as ecosystems). These different application levels will be discussed in the case studies in a progressive manner; from micro to macro. Following the case studies, Eastgate Centre, The Mobius Project and The Kalundborg eco-Industrial Park; two further examples (The Shadow Pavilion and One Ocean, Thematic Pavilion) which use biomimetic building application will be discussed for greater understanding of biomimicry and the diversity in its application potential.

Starting at the micro level, the Eastgate Centre in Zimbabwe has used a single aspect of its local environment, termite hills, as a solution to cooling and ventilation in its building.

On a larger scale, a single building which acts as an ecosystem in itself will be discussed. Its system is comparable to a tree’s cycle; and although it is a single organism, it has several processes which are interlinked to support its growth, survival, and immediate environment. The Mobius project uses a similar methodology in order to be self supporting in a cycle, reusing waste and with it creating sustainable energy.

Finally at the most macro level (to the scope of this project), a system which uses a series of buildings to support one another by sharing their by-products in order to reduce waste, importing of materials, and to save on energy usage; thus creating a synergistic cycle. This acts like the cycle of life (feeding, decomposing, and producing) which creates a balance and support in the environment for survival.

In order to discover and understand the variety of ways biomimicry can be applied; several case studies will be used in order to have a border knowledge of its potential.

‘The waste of one organism becomes the nutrient for another.’ (Pawlyn, 2011) 9

1.3 Defining Biomimicry

‘Design inspired by the way functional challenges have been solved in biology.’ (Pawlyn, 2016) Biomimicry is making use of natures genius strategies and patterns which have been developed and improved over 3.8 billion years in order to assist in current challenges with regards to sustainability. By emulating natures solutions to the challenges currently faced it could potentially improve our design and technological problems in areas such as production of materials, sustainable energy solutions and waste management. (Biomimicry institute (21 Sep 2014))

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1.4 Aim and objective

Aim -To determine whether biomimicry is a viable and valuable design solution for sustainable architecture.

Objectives -To analyse current biomimicry designs and their suitability.

-Analysing using different types of biomimetic solutions in terms of • Energy • Ventilation • Materials -With reference to the current existing biomimetic systems, consider over time their efficiency and positive contribution relative to other systems

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1.5 Literature review

One of the leading Architects in making use of biomimicry is Michael Pawlyn; therefore the research in this project uses extensive information derived from his work. His book ‘Biomimicry in Architecture’ is one of the main pieces of literature used. The book provided guidance for where to find relevant and existing examples of biomimetic systems. It also provided in-depth and specific research into the buildings that were discussed.

In addition to above several other books were read for potential information, including ‘Biomorphic Structures’ by Asterios Agkathidis, ‘Lightness’ By Adriaan Beukers and Ed van Hints and ‘Sustainability at the Cutting Edge’ by Peter F. Smith.

Although theses books cover areas related to the topic, Micheal Pawlyn provided better insight into this subject and covered the more relevant material than the authors above. Overall their contribution to the projects/dissertations scope and examples was limited A large amount of information gathered during the project was obtained via online sources, such as architectural journals, for example ‘Archdaily’, ‘Dezeen’ and ‘Designboom’. Information was also gathered directly from the architects and engineers websites.

The Michael Pawlyn book was published in 2016. The websites used for investigation contained material which was all published with the last ten years, and older publishings had more recent material backing their findings.

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2.1 Eastgate Centre

Figure 2.1.1 Eastgate centre, Zimbabwe (Netdna-sslcom, 2018)

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‘Sustainable architecture must satisfy the needs of present users without diminishing the prospects of future generations. It must also be embedded in its natural and social environment.’ (Pearce, M (6 Dec 2016)) The Eastgate centre, designed by Mike Pearce, is a multi use building consisting of offices and a shopping centre. This building is based in Harare, Zimbabwe. The building was designed to integrate the regionalized style of stone with a touch of international style which is glass and steel. (Pearce, M (6 Dec 2016)) This was a means of giving the building a futuristic appearance while maintaining its vernacular roots.

The technology of the building is what makes it exciting and innovative. It was designed by Michael Pearce and Arup engineers. The cooling system is based on the indigenous termite hills of the area. The aim of the building is to be passively cooled. The designers wished to create a constant and comfortable temperature internally despite the fluctuating temperatures of the local environment. (Doan, A (11/29/2012 )) Termite hills are indigenous to the local environment where this building is situated. A design based on a local biological system made the mimicry more appropriate to the environment. The system designed was made to provide a network to maintain a comfortable temperature without an HVAC (Heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system which is both economical as it saves approximately 10% of the buildings cost (which is 3.5 million USD) as well as environmental as there is no use of energy (usually burning fossil fuels). (Doan, A (11/29/2012 )) In order for the termites to survive, the internal area of the hill must be maintained at a constant temperature of 30.6°C (while temperature externally can vary from 1°C to 40°C) in order for the fungus they consume as a food source to survive. This is done by air being pulled through vents in the mound which are constantly adjusted by the termites. The adjustments are either opening or closing the vents depending on what changes are required. The air that is pulled into the mound is cooled by the surrounding clay which absorbs the heat. The warm air inside the mound rises through a central ventilator which releases the hot air back outdoors while drawing in the cool air in the process. Doan, A (11/29/2012 ) The Eastgate centre has mimicked this system by using local concrete, a glass covered atrium and making the building porous to create a similar environment of a termite hill to circulate the air. The building is made up of precast concrete slabs projecting from the building. This arrangement creates a greater surface area. A greater surface area means there is a greater heat loss at night and smaller heat gain during the day. The building also includes pieces of true nature, there are ledges amoung the concrete slabs which have steel rings.

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Figure 2.1.2 Termite mound (Topbestph, 2015)

Figure 2.1.3 Eastgate Centre Alltravels. (2005)

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The building is porous so that air is pulled into the vents and is either warmed or cooled when entering the building as the concrete slabs absorb the heat. This is more effective at night as the accumulated heat is transferred to these slabs.

(Pearce, M (6 Dec 2016)) The air either loses or gains heat depending on whether the air or the concrete is cooler (heat always travels from hot to a cold). The air flows into the inhabited spaces, and then rises and is drawn up through exhaust ports.

This cycle released and draws in air in and out the of the building creating a constant cycle of fresh air. Doan, A (11/29/2012) The building is separated by a courtyard with a glass roof. This open space allows local breezes into the building. (Doan, A (11/29/2012)) This system is supported by 32 banks of low and high volume fans on the first floor which draw air from the atrium through filters to the upper levels. The fans run at a rate that will give the optimal diurnal swing (the difference of output of a substance during the day versus the night (The Free Dictonary By Farlex (2017, October 5))) in the biosphere -referring to the building being a self contained system for ventilation (Oxford dictionaries (c2018)). At night the high volume fans run so there are 10 air changes per hour, whereas in the day the low volume fans run so that there are two air changes per hour. The air enters the occupied spaces via ducts which are centralized in each building. The air from the ducts travels via hollow floors and out of low level grills under the windows. (Pearce, M (6 Dec 2016)) This cools the occupied spaces. The human activity and machinery in the spaces warm up the air (causing an average increase of 1.5°C (Doan, A (11/29/2012)) which then rises into the exhaust ports which remove the warm, stale air. The warm, stale air is pushed into the chimneys via these ports which are located in the ceiling of each floor. (Doan, A (11/29/2012)) There are 48 brick chimney funnels which pull the exhaust air out of the seven floors below. Pearce, M (6 Dec 2016) Since the tenancy of the building in 1996 a data logger was installed in order to ascertain the effectiveness of this biomimetic system. The data logger has been installed in five critical positions to measure the temperatures in those areas.

(Pearce, M (6 Dec 2016)) The results show that the Eastgate centre ‘uses 35% less total energy than the average consumption of six other conventional buildings with full HVAC in Harare.’ (Pearce, M (6 Dec 2016)) Moreover despite the frequent shut downs of mains power, or the failure of HVAC due to poor maintenance in the other buildings, Eastgate continues to operate because it has a system which uses natural ventilation and cooling. (Pearce, M (6 Dec 2016))

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Figure 2.1.4 Heat circulation in a room and termite hill Pearce, M (6 Dec 2016)

Figure 2.1.5 Heat exchange night vs day Pearce, M (6 Dec 2016) 17

In addition there were further figures collected since the tenancy of the building where a data log compared the temperatures of the exterior air, the temperature of the concrete structure and the internal temperature of the building at different levels within the rooms. (Pearce, M (6 Dec 2016)) The data shows relative success. There is an average (over a ten month period) temperature difference of 3°C degrees between the exterior and interior temperatures of the building. (Pearce, M (6 Dec 2016)) The cooling at night is affected by the cloud cover. At night the heat from the building and its surrounding needs to be radiated into space, however if there is cloud cover the radiation is limited and therefore the heat loss is not as successful, which means the building remains at a warmer temperature for the occupants the following day.

Pearce, M (6 Dec 2016) The research shows that, aside from two weeks of the year during the rainy season of October and December where the buildings temperature reached between 27 to 28 degrees, the building is quite successful in its cooling system. It has potential for improvement, which has already been discussed by the designer.

The system could potentially be advanced by having an improved methodology to deal with the fluctuating temperatures as well as have a more effective absorption medium or technique for heat transfer from the air entering the building through the concrete. (Pearce, M (6 Dec 2016)) Despite this the Eastgate centre has shown that compared to buildings which use the traditional HVAC systems, it saves 50% of the energy they use. (Pearce, M (6 Dec 2016)) Therefore it can be considered that this application to is a success with the potential for refinement, but with good evidence to show the positive prospective of this biomimetic system.

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2.2 The Mobius Project

Figure 2.2.1 The Mobius project Somerset House (c2018)

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‘Find ways to bring technologies together in symbiotic clusters’ (Pawlyn, 2011) The Mobius Project is a design by Michael Pawlyn, it is an ecosystem created within a building. It is has been designed to be built on a traffic island at an intersection in Old Street, London. The building will create a cycle, like an ecosystem, to produce its own energy, to reduce and recycle its organic waste and create energy from it. The Mobius project is a means to create a system which is self sufficient using a synergistic cycle integrating food production, energy generation, and waste management. (Campos, J (18 Sep 2017)) The buildings system is made up of a green house for farming fruits and vegetables with mushroom cultivation and aquaculture. The produce from the greenhouse, aquaculture and mushroom cultivation is used for a restaurant and food market.

There is coffee shop who's coffee bean waste is used for the mushroom cultivation growth. There is an anaerobic digester where the bio-waste from the restaurant, aquaculture and coffee shop as well as collection from the surrounding areas is used. The anaerobic digester create biogas and bio-waste for energy production and compost. (Campos, J (18 Sep 2017)) An anaerobic digester breaks down the waste to produce biogas and biofertilizer.

This is done by breaking down the bio-waste in a sealed container where the bacteria acts without oxygen breaking down the biodegradable material. (Wrap (2017))(Organic Power. (c2018)) The biogas produced is used as fuel and the biofertilizer used as compost. This process has several advantages, economically it saves on energy demand for the building as well as free heating for the greenhouse.

Furthermore no bio-waste needs to be taken to landfills. The anaerobic digester also reduces the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere by reducing the amount of waste entering landfills. (Biogen (2017)) Refer to figure 2.2.2 The green house is used to farm fruit and vegetables which will then be sold from the restaurant, coffee shop and food market. The bio-waste is then put into the anaerobic digester. The greenhouse is on site which has the additional advantage of reducing food miles as produce does not need to be transported, reducing its carbon footprint. (Shammas, N.K. & Wang, L.K.(2017 )) The biofertilizer would be used as compost and worms in the compost would be used to feed the fish. The excess biofertilizer would be distributed around the local area, such as at brownfield sites. (Pawlyn, (2016))

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Image 2.2.2 Anaerobic digester cycle Eco food recycling (2016)

Image 2.2.3 Mobius project location and CGI of scheme Imgrum (2017)

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The biogas would be used to produce energy; it is made up of methane and carbon dioxides. Biogas is a renewable fuel and therefore it is both beneficial to our environment as well as to the buildings network which can use biogas to produce power to feed back into the grid and heating for the greenhouse. (Energy Clarke A Kohler Company (2014)) This project has yet to be realized, therefore only it’s potential and viability can be considered. The project is combining individual systems which already exist and have been successfully used. An example of a successful greenhouse combined with a restaurant can be found at De Kas, Netherlands which has been running since 2001, providing its own vegetables and herbs for a restaurant accommodating up to 140 guests. Refer to figures on page 23.

A similar positive outcome can be proven with anaerobic digesters. Anaerobic digesters are used all around the UK as well as world wide. A success which can give large credit to its economical advantage. It is creating a cycle which is reducing waste in order to create energy.

‘As focus around the world has turned to renewable energy, anaerobic digestion has started to become an economically viable energy source that capitalizes on humans at our most wasteful—and most creative’ Hurst, N. (2016) With regards to the factors, one can see the prospective success of this project.

Should it succeed it could be a step towards influencing London and cities alike to begin to design buildings that have zero waste systems and sustainable energy systems, perhaps not only within themselves but connected to one another.

Companies could support one another other for materials, energy and waste reduction. Which is why, in the following case study, this sort of system, an eco-system of buildings, will be discussed, for it is not only contained within a single structure and business, but a system of structures supporting each other while working independently. It is a symbioses of companies.

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Figure 2.2.4 Interior of De Kas restaurant looking into Greenhouse Restuarant De Kas (2017)

Figure 2.2.5 External view of De Kas Restuarant De Kas (2017)

Figure 2.2.6 Greenhouse of De Kas The yellow sparrow (2016)

Figure 2.2.7 De Kas restaurant Emmajanenation (2014)

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2.3 Kalundborg Eco-industrial Park

Figure 2.3.1 Kalundborg Eco-Industrial Park Arvaniti, E (2016)

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‘A cooperation between different industries by which the presence of each…increases the viability of the others, and by which the demands of society for resource savings and environmental protection are considered.’ Station manager at (Kalundborg, Revolvy (2018)) This is ‘the world’s first largescale Industrial Symbiosis’ Hoff, J (2017) Although this case study is less architecturally involved, it is significant example of a macro level use of biomimicry. Learning from this system, architecture can be improved and grown based on it.

The Kalundborg Eco-Industrial Park is based in Denmark. It began with Asnæs Power in 1959. Its original aim when developed was not creating an eco-industrial park, but rather a favourable relationship economically and environmentally which was done with private initiative. This was achieved by using the ‘the least-cost combination of inputs.’ (Revolvy (2018)) It has been, and continues, to expand its integration of companies in order to improve the system. (Revolvy (2018)) It was a collaboration of several separate businesses in the region to form an alliance with one another to use each other’s by-products and otherwise share resources. (Revolvy (2018)) A symbiotic relationship was created which was mutually beneficial economically and moreover environmentally friendly, continuing to this day.

The companies involved are a power station, an oil refinery, a gyproc factory, a pharmaceutical firm, a fish farm and the municipality of Kalundborg. Colorado.

(2018)This system is an exchange of materials, wastes, energy, water, and information. Revolvy (2018) engendered an industrial ecosystem.

Colorado. (2018) Refer to figure 2.3.2 The heart of the network is the Asnæs Power station. Revolvy (2018) The Asnæs Power station provides Statoil Refinery 40% of its steam requirements by providing its remnant steam. In return, Asnæs Power receives Statoil Refineries waste gas. Asnæs Power creates electricity and steam from this gas. The electricity and steam is then sent to a Fish farm and Novo Nordisk, which provides their full requirements in steam as well as a heating system which supplies 3500 homes. The heating is transferred by underground piping. Further contribution comes from Asnæs Power company as it supplies its fly ash to a cement company. During Asnæs desulfurization process comes gypsum which is sent to Gyproc, satisfying two thirds of its requirements for gymsum which is used in their production of gypsum board. Revolvy (2018)

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Figure 2.3.2 Industrial Eco-System of Kalundborg Colorado. (2017)

Figure 2.3.3 Industrial Eco-System of Kalundborg Ellen Macarthur Foundation. (2011)

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Statoil refinery contributes by removing sulfur from its natural gas for Kemira, a sulfuric acid manufacturer. The fish farm and Novo Nordisk provide sludge. The sludge produced by the fish farm comes from its ponds and provides it to local farms, whereas Novo Nordisk’s sludge, of which it produces 3,000 cubic meters per day, is refined for biogas for Asnæs Power.

There are thirty exchanges of materials in Kalundborg’s network. Revolvy (2018) For a clear understanding of all the companies involved, as well the secondary companies involved and their significance on a local and global scale, a list has been placed below: ▪

Asnæs Power (owned by Dong energy) Danish company: Largest power plant in Denmark

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Statoil, Norwegian company: Denmark's largest oil refinery

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Novo Nordisk, Danish company: Largest producer of insulin in the world

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Gyproc, French company: Producer of gypsum board

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Kalunborg Municipality

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Novozymes, Danish company: Largest enzyme producer in the world

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RGS 90, Danish Company: Soil remediation and recovery

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Kara/Novoren, Danish company: Waste treatment

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Kalundborg Forsyning A/S: Water and heat supplier, as well as waste disposer, for Kalundborg citizens

(Revolvy (2018)) Due to the scarcity of water, the system of Kalundborg has been further improved by introducing the use of recycled water. Revolvy (2018) This has been between Statoil and Asnæs Power. Statoil provides two types of water for two separate functions at Asnæs. It provides cooling water which Asnæs uses as boiler feed-water (700, 000 cubic meters per year), and Statoil’s treated waste water is used by Asnæs for cleaning (using as much as 200,000 cubic meters per year).

Revolvy (2018) remainder of the waste water (which is 24 °C ) is used for heat pumps at a heat reservoir. Revolvy (2018) Despite Kalundborgs eco-industrials park sharing of resources, it is not27a self sufficient system and not contained within the park. Revolvy (2018)

This leaves room for potential improvement and expansion to other companies which could provide and employ further companies to fashion a network which would be working to an idealised system where the materials were provide within a self contained system which had zero waste and self supplied materials and renewable energy.

This system could be applied to architecture, as seen by the mobius project, but at a greater scale, for example, a city scale, where we design building to connect to one another in order to share resources, so as to reduce waste, make use of sustainable energy among ourselves and reduce our negative impact on the environment.

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3.1 The Shadow Pavillion

Figure 3.1.1 The Shadow Pavilion Michler, A. (2011)

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Designed by PLY architects in 2009, this pavilion is located at the University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens, Michigan, United States of America.

The pavilion has used biomimicry to create a light weight yet sturdy structure. Its function is for a user to have a space where they can enjoy the views and sounds of the surrounding natural landscape. Arch20. (2017) It is based on phyllotaxies (The arrangements of leaves, packed in a spiral, which have been found to go by the fibonnacci sequence rule.) Wolfram MathWorld. (2017) The structure used over 100 aluminium cut cones in different sizes. These cones created a perforated structure which made it a lightweight. The cone structure was used in to maximise the users experience of the surrounding natural landscape, this is done by the holes allowing in natural light and funnelling in the sounds vicinity.

Archdaily (2011) By rolling the aluminium sheets into cones, the material is stiffened and strengthened without the need of increasing its density. This can be seen in nature where curves and folds are used in order to stiffen thin surfaces. For example a Southern Magnolia, where it is folded around the midrib, and each side of the leaf is curved, this arrangement helps to brace the leaf. (Pawlyn, 2016) The organisation of these cones is based on phyllotaxis. Usually a material with punctures is weaker. By basing the arrangement of the cones on the phyllotaxis pattern, the structure did not lose its strength despite the perforations. Archdaily (2011)

Figure 3.1.2 Southern Magnolia leaf Bower and Branch (2017)

Figure 3.1.3 Illustration of The Shadow Pavilion Archdaily (2011)

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The simplicity of the function is made impressive by the technology and design that went behind it. Creating a sturdy and graceful structure which emulates natures genius with seeming ease is the beauty of this structure. Like ballet, although one can appreciate the beauty of how it is executed, when one understands the strength and training that goes behind achieving this, it becomes so much more remarkable.

The use of perforated structures could be important step in architectural design. By reducing the weight and the volume of materials, we are reducing the overall cost of building. When the building weighs less, there is less demand on the foundations which means that they do not need to be as deep or heavy duty. Perforated buildings could also assist in improving natural ventilation in buildings. Also, the cost of materials is reduced as less are needed.

However these suggestions are limited to writers assumption. Climate, context and function would be strong factors to consider, however in each location there is an organism to be found which can provide a particular system which could bring an appropriate and improved solution for our design.

Archdaily (2011)

Figure 3.1.4 Looking outside from the interior of the Shadow Pavilion Archdaily (2011)

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Figure 3.1.5 Shadow Pavilion view form the back Archdaily (2011)

Figure 3.1.6 Close up of Shadow Pavilion Archdaily (2011)

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3.2 One Ocean, Thematic Pavilion

Figure 3.2.1 One Ocean, Thematic Pavilion Archdaily (2012) 33

One Ocean, the Thematic Pavilion was completed in 2012. It is located in Yeosu-si, Jeollanam-do South Korea and was designed by soma. This design used biomimicry to create a means of shading by using the study of radiation, evaporation, conduction and convection –the four main means of heat transferral to find the best way tp keep the building cool. The design is making use of the idea of solar shading in order to prevent heat gain by a building. In nature, the avoidance of heat gain is an obvious solution to staying cool, however this unfortunately not a technique that is applied often in current architecture.

The Thematic Pavilion is based on the behaviour of the Strelitzia reginae. A flower indigenous to South Africa. When a bird lands on the flower, the perch bends and the petals open backwards to reveal the anther so that the birds feet gather the pollen for pollination. From this a concept was derived by researchers at The Plant Biomechanics Group at the University of Freiburg for shading. From their research they designed a concept of shading which was, there when needed, however could be moved in when not, in order to prevent any unnecessary obstruction of view. (Pawlyn, 2016) The shading method used by this building is by minimising radiative heat gains from the sun. This is done by using 108 kinetic lamellas made of glass fibre reinforced polymers ‘which gives them a high tensile strength, low bending stiffness and allows for large reversible elastic deformations.’ Archdaily ( 2012) This aspect was required for the mechanical control of bending these lamellas with actuators. By bending the lamellas the solar input can be controlled, the actuators are powered by solar panels on the roof of the building. Archdaily ( 2012) Just as the anther moves in and out when needed in order to be pollinated by the bird, so do the lamellas twist in order to control the solar gain.

This building also has a biomorphic form as it is designed to represent ‘the living ocean and coast’ Archdaily ( 2012) This is done by creating a seemingly continuous surface, like the ocean it is ‘as an endless surface and in an immersed perspective as depth Archdaily ( 2012) the surface pattern of the exterior of the building transforms from horizontal to vertical, reflecting the organisation of the interior spaces. The smooth surface is meant to give the appearance of the building being a continuation of the ocean, as if from the point where the buildings meet the water it is a rising continuation of the ocean in solid form. Maier, F (2012) To further reduce the energy usage the building is orientated in order to maximise the entry of the prevailing wind into the main spaces such as the foyer and ‘Best Practice Area’ for natural ventilation. Maier, F (2012)

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Figure 3.2.2 Strelitzia reginae Scholten, J. (2017)

Figure 3.2.3 Strelitzia reginae with a bird perched on it causing it to reveal its anther as the petals open backwards Koorts, R. (2014)

Figure 3.2.4 The lamellas of the Thematic Pavilion Archdaily (2012)

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The lamellas are part of the biomorphic appearance as their fins are meant to look like waves of the ocean. During the day they are used to control the solar gains of the building within. Each lamella is controlled individually, so their movements too are wave-like, but this is not only for aesthetic, but greater control of the buildings temperature. At night there are LED’s on the lamellas lighting each other up, which causes a even more dramatic illusion of rolling waves across the building, for as the lamellas move, so does the exposure of the light, so that they emphasise each movement. Maier, F (2012) This Thematic Pavilion’s use of biomimicry to create a sustainable and economic means for maintaining the building at a comfortable temperature is an innovative scheme, which incorporates existing green design such as solar energy for a building, as well as the simplistic solution to ventilation, natural ventilation combined with the complex lamellas which allow for this to happen. It also uses the lovely aesthetic of biomorphic shapes, specifically the ocean for its form.

Figure 3.2.5 Thematic Pavilion rising from the ocean Maier, F. (2012)

Figure 3.2.6 One Ocean, Thematic Pavilion Archdaily (2012)

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4.1 Conclusion ‘You never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something, build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete’ R. Buckminster Fuller (Pawlyn, 2011) Summary of points: With consideration of the buildings, pavilions and industrial system that have been studied, there is a clear potential for success in using biomimicry as a tool to help improve or design to be more economical, sustainable and environmental.

Biomimicry provides positive solutions to material usage, waste management, energy sustainability and environmental impacts.

The Eastgate centre showed us how we can save on energy with the use of percipient design of ventilation and cooling.

The Mobius project showed us how we can reduce our waste in a system and use that waste to create sustainable energy. As well as producing our own materials for a business in the same area in order to reduce the The Kalundborg eco-industrial project showed how we can create ecosystem between companies, like the Mobius project but at a larger scale, it further showed us how this system can continually expand to improve.

The Shadow Pavilion was an elegant piece of biomimetic design where the complexity came into the research however the execution and final form was almost simplistic. Although the function too was not a complex one, this pavilion research, design and concept could be applied more elaborately in future designs.

The One Ocean, Thematic Pavilion is a graceful success in using a hybrid of green solutions. It incorporates solar energy in order to power lamellas which control solar gain. This biomimetic solution was a great example of using sustainable means for maintaining a building cool.

A great limitation in biomimicry in architecture is that unlike the organisms and systems we are trying to mimic, our buildings are not alive. Perhaps that can change. However, for now this difference is a problem as ecosystems and the prosperity of organic life comes in its ability to change in response to its environment.

This ability gives its mean of survival and a constant response to change in order to continue a mutually advantageous cycle in a system to maintain balance.

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Designers should no longer be taking a static approach to nature's ability by simply learning about it, we should use it in practice, in fields such as engineering,

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Page 28 Revolvy. (2017). Kalundborg Eco-Industrial Park. Retrieved from https://www.revolvy.com/main/index.php?s=Kalundborg%20Eco-industrial%20Park Revolvy. (2017). Kalundborg Eco-Industrial Park. Retrieved from https://www.revolvy.com/main/index.php?s=Kalundborg%20Eco-industrial%20Park Revolvy. (2017). Kalundborg Eco-Industrial Park. Retrieved from https://www.revolvy.com/main/index.php?s=Kalundborg%20Eco-industrial%20Park Revolvy. (2017). Kalundborg Eco-Industrial Park. Retrieved from https://www.revolvy.com/main/index.php?s=Kalundborg%20Eco-industrial%20Park Page 30 Arch20. (2017). Shadow Pavilion | PLY Architecture. Retrieved from https://www.arch2o.com/shadow-pavilion-ply-architecture/.

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Image references Front cover Figure Fakhriannur, R. (2016). Strengthening the “fragility of grand discoveries� with biomimicry. Retrieved from https://biomimicry.org/strengthening-the-fragility-of-grand-discoveries-with-biomimicry/.

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Figure 2.3.2 Colorado. (2017). Industrial Ecology In Practice 1. Retrieved from https://www.colorado.edu/AmStudies/lewis/ecology/kalund.htm.

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Figure 3.1.5 Archdaily. (2011). Shadow Pavilion / PLY Architecture. Retrieved from https://www.archdaily.com/192699/shadow-pavilion-ply-architecture/50170fac28ba0d235b000c1f-shadow-pavilion-plyarchitecture-image.

Figure 3.1.6 Archdaily. (2011). Shadow Pavilion / PLY Architecture. Retrieved from https://www.archdaily.com/192699/shadow-pavilion-ply-architecture/50170f7d28ba0d235b000c18-shadow-pavilion-plyarchitecture-image.

Figure 3.2.1 Archdaily. (2012). One Ocean, Thematic Pavilion EXPO 2012 / soma. Retrieved from https://www.archdaily.com/236979/one-ocean-thematic-pavilion-expo-2012-soma/5001235328ba0d2c9f000af7-one-oc ean-thematic-pavilion-expo-2012-soma-photo.

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Figure 3.2.5 Maier, F. (2012). One Ocean – Thematic pavilion for EXPO 2012. Retrieved from https://www.detail-online.com/article/one-ocean-thematic-pavilion-for-expo-2012-16339/.

Figure 3.2.6 Archdaily. (2012). One Ocean, Thematic Pavilion EXPO 2012 / soma. Retrieved from https://www.archdaily.com/236979/one-ocean-thematic-pavilion-expo-2012-soma/5001232628ba0d2c9f000aec-one-oc ean-thematic-pavilion-expo-2012-soma-photo.

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