The concept of resilience in architecture is gaining importance, particularly in the face of natural disasters. While sustainability focuses on preserving natural resources, resilience emphasizes the ability to adapt and persist in times of adversity. Biomimicry, the study of nature’s designs and strategies, holds promise in enhancing disaster resilience in construction. By mimicking nature’s forms and systems, buildings can become more adaptable and resilient. The four key concepts of resilience in architecture are rebound, robustness, extension, and adaptability.
Biomimicry can inform structural form and behavior in building design, as seen in the example of the China World Trade Center, which was inspired by bamboo’s load-bearing properties. A modular design approach, similar to nature’s building blocks, can boost flexibility and agility. Embracing testing and prototyping can also help identify system limitations and improve design. As the world faces unprecedented challenges, biomimicry offers a promising strategy for enhancing infrastructure resilience. By shifting focus to ecosystem-level mimicry, architects can create harmonious and resilient buildings that thrive in changing environments.