Bio-mimicry in History

When nature has a problem, evolution weeds out what doesn’t work and selects the most effective adaptations.

Hence what we are left with is design, that has been perfected over several million years, to suit specific needs with maximum efficiency.

Biomimetics or biomimicry is the imitation of the models, systems, and elements of nature for the purpose of solving complex human problems. The word ‘Biomimicry’ originates from two Greek words : Bios - Life Mimesis - Imitation

Biomimetic architecture is a contemporary philosophy of architecture that seeks solutions for sustainability in nature, not by replicating the natural forms, but by understanding the rules governing those forms. It is a multi-disciplinary approach to sustainable design that follows a set of principles rather than stylistic codes.

One of the early examples of would-be biomimicry was the study of birds to enable human flight. Although never successful in creating a "flying machine", Leonardo da Vinci was a keen observer of the anatomy and flight of birds, and made numerous notes and sketches on his observations as well as sketches of "flying machines".

Leonardo da Vinci's sketches for a "flying machine"

The Wright Brothers, who succeeded in flying the first heavier-than-air aircraft in 1903, allegedly derived inspiration from observations of pigeons in flight.

In the work of Filippo Brunelleschi: after studying the strength of eggshells, the Renaissance architect designed a thinner, lighter dome for his cathedral in Florence, completed in 1436.

Filippo Brunelleschi's Egg shell inspired design for a lighter Dome, in Florence.