Back to Insights

23

Urban Ecosystems

Biomimicry - Building Exoskeletons

April 24, 2025

The term “biomimicry” in architecture refers to the application of principles which are found in nature and translated into the design of sustainable solutions – like the folded skin of this building.

‍

The repetitive triangulations resemble an animal’s extruded exoskeleton – or, perhaps, the hardened shell of a fruit.

‍

By increasing the envelope’s surface area, we can effectively shade the glass line – reducing glare and air conditioning loads, and minimising overheating – while still daylighting the interior and maintaining views out.

‍

Regenerative design solutions will always consider the sun path around the building in all seasons, and optimal solar access.

‍

There is much more that we can do make our buildings energy efficient and comfortable to inhabit – and mimicking structures found in nature is one way to achieve this.

‍

Let’s lower the temperature inside of buildings via strategic biomimicry.

‍

We strongly believe that development should be regenerative – improving outcomes for both the environment and for people.

‍

© 2026 nicholas.design - International Architecture + Design. All Rights Reserved.