Back to the Nature. Bio-inspired design for creation and construction of shell structures

Throughout history, humanity has drawn inspiration from Nature to fulfil basic survival needs, such as providing shelter to live in perfect harmony and in respect of Nature. However, in the last centuries, the rapid progress of industrial development has transformed this relationship from respect to exploitation of the environment, producing pollution and altering the ecosystem. The building and construction industry is the first example of this trend, as it is particularly harmful to the environment and the largest emitter of greenhouse gases. This paper will provide an alternative outlook by considering and analyzing potential solutions – deployed in various regions around the world – for implementing buildings that adapt to changing socio-environmental conditions. Bio-inspired design approach involved several bio-disciplines, including biomorphism, biomimicry, and bio-utilization. Each discipline explores Nature as a complex system of various organisms and elements, serving as a source for forms, functions, and materials of contemporary buildings. This analysis considers different economic, geographic, and social factors, as well as the different construction needs that may arise in specific contexts, leading to the design of bio-inspired buildings. The paper aims to explore bio-inspired design solutions for constructing shell structures, emphasizing the factors that enable their seamless integration with the surrounding landscape.