Introduction
Biomimicry is the act of copying from nature , and as such , product designs inspired by nature means in the design process , where designers referred to nature for solutions . It has been around for some time now as highlighted by the hook and loop fastener / Velcro , which was inspired by the bur plant and invented in 1948 ( Petur 2011 ). Globally , there a number of inventions inspired by nature , they included the flying squirrel wing-suit and the bullet train . Biomimicry is a field of study and research that studies precise ideas , processes and models of nature and takes inspiration from them to tackle challenges facing human kind . Biomimicry is derived from a combination of two words mainly ‘ bios ’ meaning life and ‘ mimesis ’ meaning ‘ to mimic ’. Internationally , there is a transformational wave in the discipline of architecture and design , which reminds us that we are part of the larger ecosystem of the earth . Therefore , this means that nature is an important component that allows us to solve some of our problems , and as such , should be conserved ( Turner and Soar 2008 ). This study will take the nature as its mentor and as a model . It will mimic termite mounds , which are oriented to minimize sun exposure , and designed with chimneys for airflow .
The purpose of this research is to demonstrate a thread within the UAE and especially Abu Dhabi ’ s development , which over time evolved different ideas about sustainability . Investments in design , construction , labor and materials always involved some cost benefit analysis of the built environment and its sustainability . This study thus takes a realistic approach of a case study analysis of an existing housing community ( Emirati Housing , Yas Island ) and its existing site ( Raza 2014 ). It was divided into three stages : Understanding ( the natural concept ); Exploring ( the relation between the natural concept and the redesigning of the project ); Deciding ( the restructuring of the project ).
Methodology
The study focuses on the complex and dynamic interrelations between ecosystems , society , and economy at different spatial scale and developing place-based responses and solutions . Sustainability in this context considers the whole relationships of connections between natural and human communities as well as between nature and culture ( Wheeler 2013 ). The study is based on sustainable architecture that describes an energy and ecologically conscious approach to the design of the built environment . The built environment is human-made spaces in which people live , work , and recreate on a day-to-day basis ( Izzi Deen 1990 ).
The main aim of the study is to look into the sustainability aspects within the context and to recommend a suitable solution for “ Yas Island Housing Community ” in Abu Dhabi . The focus is on the technical functionality of the natural concept and incorporating its structure , mechanism of its external and internal functions , and the environmental advantages it conveys in adapting to its surroundings , which will guide to mimic the natural concept by adapting and strategically planning a design that is a breathable and a living building in the case study setting .
Termite Mounds
Structure and Material Termite mounds are structured differently according to region , location , and weather . The location and the weather also determine the mounds shape .
400 ZEMCH 2015 | International Conference | Bari - Lecce , Italy