Undergraduate Honors Thesis Paper - Fall 2023
Abstract:
Nature has an integral relationship with architecture and serves as a sustainable role model and inspiration for designers. The process of biomimicry in architecture has the potential to produce more sustainable design solutions and foster a connection between humans and nature. Existing biomimetic design projects have varying strengths and weaknesses as examples of the process. Utilizing guidelines and references from key leaders in biomimetic design consultancy (Biomimicry 3.8), selected case studies are assessed for their ability to demonstrate the benefits of this design strategy. Using these evaluations, the case studies are diagrammed and critiqued to determine how new projects could go further to improve the future of biomimicry.
Four Field Matrix of Biomimetic Strength and Intent
Comparison Diagram of Eastgate Center and Council House 2
Simplified Design Principle
Full List of Case Studies
I worked on this project from Spring 2022 until the end of Fall 2023. This photo is from a trip I took to one of my case studies, the Eden Project, in Cornwall, UK during May of 2023 to conduct research and meet an architect on staff.
Timeline of Case Studies
Aguahoja Life Cycle and Material Composition
Sahara Forest Project Process Diagram
Eden Project Transformation and Simplified Design Principle
These photos are from my final presentation to the public. These were two of my primary advisors, Alison Turner and Lisa Skiles, on my committee of four professors. My final deliverables were a digital presentation, a printed presentation, and a research paper.