Biomimetics in Architecture
Architecture of Life and Buildings
1st Edition
Published on 24. February 2011
Online / Databases
280 pages
978-3-99043-381-2 (ISBN)
Description
The purpose of investigating the overlaps between architecture and biology is neither to draw borders or make further distinctions nor to declare architecture alive, but to clarify what is currently happening in the blurred fields, and to investigate the emerging discipline of "biomimetics in architecture" [Architekturbionik]. An overview of the present state of research in the relatively young scientific field of biomimetics shows the potential of the approach. The new discipline aims at innovation by making use of the subtle systems and solutions in nature having evolved within millions of years. Approaches that have been taken to transfer nature's principles to architecture have provided successful developments. The new approach presented in this book transfers the abstract concept of life onto built environment. Strategic search for life's criteria in architecture delivers a new view of architectural achievements and makes the innovative potential visible, which has not been exploited yet.
A selection of case studies illustrates the diversity of starting points: from vernacular architecture to space exploration.
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Person
Petra Gruber is an architect with a strong interest in biology and interdisciplinary studies. She has worked in renowned architecture companies until the founding of her on venture transarch in 2008. Her work as university assistant at the Vienna University of Technology has led to extensive research in the field of biomimetics, summarised in the doctoral thesis that was the basis of this book. She is integrated in international scientific networks and currently involved in research projects, teaching, consultancy and publications in biomimetics.