Rohit Mohan, Chief Design Officer, Godrej Properties Ltd. talks about architectural transformation through natural ingenuity in Design

“Nature-Inspired Architecture,” is reshaping the boundaries between the natural world and the constructed environment. Architects and designers are crafting structures that not only harmonize with their surroundings but also offer sustainable solutions by harnessing the inherent ideas, patterns, and aesthetics found in nature. Architects are exploring the concept of plant phototropism, where plants adapt their growth direction in response to sunlight.

This inspiration is being harnessed to create adaptable facades and structures that can adjust themselves according to environmental conditions, improving energy efficiency and reducing a building’s ecological footprint. Nature has inspired architects for centuries. Ian McHarg emphasized in “Design with Nature” that ecological knowledge should guide how we design, and preserve natural places. This approach goes beyond aesthetics, delving into understanding ecosystems. Nature-inspired architecture aims to mirror the efficiency, beauty, and resilience of natural systems. The inspiration drawn from nature transcends mere aesthetics; it delves deep into the intricate designs and processes of the natural world. This approach signifies a creative endeavour to solve problems by seeking sustainable solutions in nature’s models and imitating them.

Inspiration from Nature: One of the most striking example the “Biomimicry Pavilion” in Germany, is a marvel designed by architect Mick Pearce, an innovative structure that takes inspiration from termite mounds, emulating their ventilation system to regulate temperature and airflow naturally. By replicating the architectural genius of termites, Pearce has not only created a visually stunning masterpiece but also a sustainable, eco-friendly building. Another testament to the ingenuity of nature-inspired architecture is the “Eden Project” in Cornwall, United Kingdom. This complex of biomes, housing a diverse range of plants from various climates, draws inspiration from soap bubbles and honeycomb structures. This design optimization allows for natural light penetration and thermal efficiency, creating an environment where nature thrives within human-made structures. The form of a structure plays a pivotal role in maximizing nature’s potential. Consider the iconic “Gherkin,” a skyscraper designed by Norman Foster, mimicking the shape and lattice structure of the Venus flower basket sponge. This design not only enhances the building’s strength but also facilitates natural ventilation, harnessing the power of wind and air to create a comfortable interior environment.

Integration of Nature: Nature’s integration into architecture goes beyond mere aesthetics. Bioclimatic architecture and passive design concepts focus on optimizing building performance and energy efficiency by utilizing natural elements and environmental conditions. The Council House 2 (CH2) Building in Melbourne, Australia, is a shining example of passive design excellence. Adorned with movable sunshades, this sustainable office building intelligently regulates sunlight and temperature, ensuring optimal conditions inside. Moreover, a rooftop garden captures and filters rainwater, reducing reliance on municipal supplies and promoting water conservation.

Interaction with Nature: Biophilic design, an approach emphasizing a close connection between building occupants and nature, has revolutionized architectural landscapes. The “Bosco Verticale” in Milan, Italy, envisioned by Stefano Boeri, exemplifies this principle by integrating diverse plant life into a vertical forest. This not only contributes to environmental regeneration and urban biodiversity but also creates microclimates, enhancing the city’s overall ecological balance. Additionally, the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre in Canada seamlessly blends with its arid landscape, fostering a deep sense of connection with the environment. Its earthy tones and indigenous landscaping offer visitors an immersive experience in the desert ecosystem, showcasing how architecture can pay homage to nature and create a profound bond with the surroundings.

Immersing in nature: The impact of nature in architecture extends to materials. Architects are exploring self-healing materials inspired by the regenerative abilities of living organisms, potentially revolutionizing the durability and maintenance of buildings. We can see a wide range of experiment in Architecture Industry with materials like Cross laminated timber used in CLT Park, Harumi by Ar. Kengo Kuma in Tokyo and exploring more nature-inspired materials like Hydrogel, a three dimensional network of polymers as innovative facade material. Researchers are exploring the use of spider silk as a building material, the silk’s lightweight yet robust properties make it an ideal candidate for constructing resilient, lightweight, and sustainable structures. Furthermore, prioritizing locally sourced, renewable, and recycled materials not only reduces carbon footprints but also fosters a sense of cultural authenticity and reduced costs.

In the face of pressing environmental challenges, the pursuit of designing with nature has become imperative notably enhancing resource efficiency and minimizing cost impacts. Architects now bear the responsibility of envisioning built environments that enhance livability and fostering connection while designing our built environment. As architects continue to embrace the wisdom of nature, they leave an indelible mark, ensuring a positive and lasting legacy for generations to come. Nature-inspired architecture is not just a trend; it is the future—a future where the genius of nature and human innovation unite, creating a world where both can thrive. This trend stands as a testament to human ingenuity and our ability to draw inspiration from the natural world to solve complex challenges in architecture.

Rohit Mohan, Chief Design Officer, Godrej Properties Ltd.

Rohit Mohan has over 25 years of experience in architecture and design, and he currently holds the position of Chief Design Officer at Godrej Properties Limited, one of India’s leading real estate developers. He leads the design strategy and innovation team, overseeing the conceptualization, execution, and delivery of world-class projects across various segments and geographies. He leverages his skills in feasibility studies, architectural design, and creativity to create sustainable, functional, and aesthetically appealing spaces that enhance the quality of life and well-being of customers and stakeholders. He is passionate about advancing the field of architecture and design and has earned a certification in creativity and design thinking from Stanford Online. He values collaboration, diversity, and excellence, and he strives to empower and inspire his team and partners to achieve their shared vision and goals. He is committed to fostering a culture of innovation within the architectural and design industry, constantly pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities. His dedication to creating spaces that not only meet the highest standards but also leave a lasting impact on the communities they serve underscores his unwavering commitment to excellence.