Biomimicry

Influenced by biomimetics and the examination of systems, structures, and processes found in nature, students at The School of Architecture at Saarland University in Saarbrücken, Germany, have constructed a temporary research pavilion inspired by the efficiency of nature. The structure, called Bowooss, or “bionic optimized wood shells with sustainability”, draws specific inspiration from the shells of marine plankton. The Bowooss site explains that the extensive biodiversity that exists within certain diatoms “promises the discovery of entirely new design principles.” The structure, which is fitted with a distinctive pattern of cutouts allowing light to dance through the pavilion, was constructed out of wood, citing the advantageous properties of the source material.