The construction industry can be a bit slow to adopt new innovations, especially those that require jettisoning tried-and-true materials. However, biomimetic research offers an attractive alternative.
Examples of this approach include the Eastgate Centre in Harare, Zimbabwe, which uses ventilation systems similar to those of termite mounds. But it is important to distinguish between biomorphic designs that merely resemble elements of nature, and those that mimic function.
Bird’s Nest
As more and more scientists turn to nature for inspiration, it is increasingly likely that biomimetic materials will be used in modern building projects. One example is the 30 St Mary Axe building in London, known as the Gherkin, which was designed using the anatomy of a Venus Flower Basket sea sponge. This allows the building to absorb and regulate temperature, rather than relying on traditional air-conditioning and heating systems.
Detailed analysis of bird nests has revealed many interesting features about the way birds build their structures. For example, the shape of a nest cup may have been selected to help prevent predators from detecting the eggs inside. Similarly, the hollow interior of some nests may be used to reduce the amount of air flow through the structure, helping to keep the eggs and chicks warmer.
Researchers have also found that some bird nests use both natural and human-made materials. For example, the hollow of a magpie nest can hold up to 1500 metal spikes. These are then used to form a defensive dome that prevents intruders from entering the nest.
Teachers can use these interesting facts to inspire students’ own creative constructions. Consider taking them on a nature walk and asking them to look at inactive bird nests in their local environment. This can help them identify the materials used by different species to build their ideal nests. This is a great opportunity to discuss the fact that the best building material is often whatever is available.
The Covent Garden Building
Located in the heart of London, The Covent Garden Building is home to the world-famous Royal Opera House and The Royal Ballet. But its many uses extend beyond these two buildings to encompass the entire area spanning from Shaftesbury Avenue and Seven Dials to St Martins Lane and Kingsway.
The area was granted its first patent to hold a public market in 1835. Traders with baskets, trestles and carts set up stalls in the Piazza in front of the Earl of Bedford’s elegant residence. The Duke soon became concerned about the ramshackle stalls spoiling his property, and he petitioned the Parliament for a law to regulate them.
His request was granted, and the Market was moved into a new building designed by architect Charles Fowler. The neo-classical structure is still there 180 years later, and it is hard to mistake for anything else. Fowler shook up traditional market design by foregoing elaborate decoration. Instead, he focused on building structures that were functional and efficient. This approach was revolutionary at the time, and is still a hallmark of contemporary office design. The design features a garden-atrium that functions as more than just an aesthetic element. The plants help organise grey and black water recovery through advanced biological and bacteriological purification systems. In this way, the Covent Garden Building is 95% self-sufficient in terms of its water supply.
Havelock Wool Insulation
Havelock wool insulation is a natural, healthy alternative to traditional blown-in fiberglass and mineral wool. It is harvested from sheep and processed without harmful chemicals. It has a low embodied energy and is sourced through a sustainable trade that helps sequester over half-million tons of carbon from the atmosphere. It also performs better than conventional insulation media.
The unique chemistry of wool makes it more effective than other synthetic and glass insulation. This is due to its hygroscopic properties, which allow water vapor to pass into the interior of the fiber while trapping moisture and minimizing condensation. This is key in maintaining high insulating R values.
Wool is able to withstand fire without the need for toxic additives, and can help slow the spread of flames. It also swells upon exposure to heat, creating a protective barrier that prevents the penetration of flames and smoke.
Havelock Wool insulation is available in a variety of forms including loose-fill and batts. It is easy to install and does not require the use of protective clothing or safety equipment. It is class A rated for fire resistance and meets ASTM E84 standards for smoke development. It also does not off-gas and resists mold growth. It is a great choice for any insulated space, particularly those difficult to reach crawl spaces where a vapor barrier and reasonable ventilation is needed.
The Beijing National Stadium
The Beijing National Stadium, which is also known as the Bird’s Nest is a post-modern structure that has become a symbol of China. Its design was inspired by Chinese culture and is meant to represent the balance of nature on earth. The building takes up a total area of 254,600 square meters and was completed in 2008 after five years of construction. The first phase of the construction was the soil preparation which included digging pile foundations 36 metres (121 feet) below ground. This was followed by putting up the supporting columns and the internal structure which consisted of 14,700 precast concrete slabs.
The structural steel used in the construction of the building was a special type of steel made specifically for this project. It had to be able to withstand earthquakes and had to be very flexible at the same time. The architects decided to use this type of steel because it was able to meet the strict requirements of safety and security that were set by the Chinese authorities.
The Beijing National Stadium is a popular tourist attraction and hosts concerts by famous artists such as Kanye West, Beyonce, and Iron Maiden. It is also home to various sports events such as basketball, MMA, and ice hockey. The stadium is also a cultural centre where different arts are displayed. The building is a great example of how architecture can be integrated with the natural environment.