Please add to our community thinking by posting a few inspirational analogies of your own between the systems that you typically find in biological organisms and similar systems that we often (or should) find in buildings.
Think creatively about all the systems and features that allow creatures to survive, thrive, and adapt to their environments!
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- human bone structure and building’s steel or supportive structure
In human bone structure, bones are remarkable for their strength and flexibility, characteristics essential for supporting the human body, protecting vital organs, and facilitating movement.
Similar to bones in the human body, the steel structure provides essential support for buildings. It forms the fundamental framework that defines a building’s form and stability.
Both these structures serve a similar purpose in their respective domains: providing support, bearing loads, and allowing for resilience and durability. In architecture, understanding and applying principles observed in human bone structure can lead to more efficient and sustainable building designs.
- human vascular system and building’s electrical wirings and conduits
(1) connection and transportation
The human vascular system, consisting of arteries, veins, and capillaries, serves as a network connecting various organs. In a building, electrical wiring and conduits create a network that connects various parts of the structure. They transport electricity from the source to outlets, switches, and appliances throughout the building.
(2) communication
Blood vessels also play a role in signaling, carrying hormones and other signaling molecules that communicate messages between different parts of the body. In the buildings, this network also facilitates communication by transporting data and signals for telecommunication systems, internet connectivity, and other digital services.
(3) distribution
The branching structure of blood vessels ensures the distribution of blood to all bodily tissues, even those located far from the heart. The wiring and conduit systems are designed to evenly distribute electrical power to every part of the building, ensuring that all areas have access to electricity.
In both systems, the principles of efficient transportation, effective communication, and even distribution are crucial. They share a common goal of delivering essential resources (whether it be blood or electricity) throughout a complex structure (the human body or a building), ensuring functionality and sustainability.
- human respiratory and circulation system and building ventilation system
Just as humans breathe in oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide, buildings can have ventilation systems that efficiently circulate air, bringing in fresh air and expelling stale air. This mimics the respiratory process, ensuring a healthy and comfortable environment for occupants.
- nervous system and building’s automation system
The human nervous system detects changes in the environment and sends signals to the brain to respond. In buildings, automation systems (like smart thermostats and sensors) detect environmental changes (temperature, light, occupancy) and adjust systems accordingly to maintain optimal conditions.