"Biology influences design projects in many ways; the related impact is known as biomimetics or biomimicry. Investigating the animal kingdom as a source of inspiration, this book focuses on the analysis of various animal skins, translating the learned principles into the built environment. Skin is a complex organ that performs various functions; similarly, building envelopes serve multiple roles as interfaces between building inhabitants and environmental elements. The resulting architectural building coverings take into consideration dynamic local environmental conditions. The text illustrates how supporting biomimetic principles can create a more sustainable way of building and living"-- Provided by publisher

Includes bibliographical references (pages 211-227) and index

Part I: Theoretical framework : How nature inspires architecture : Historical interplay of bio-inspired architecture among science, art and design ; Contemporary challenges and interests ; Nature and the built environment ; Novel practices in the built environment: dynamic, atmospheric, and active -- How biology informs architecture : Evolving and adapting to survive ; Climate and biomes ; Ecosystems and biodiversity -- Lessons learned: biology to the built environment -- Part II: Applications : Overview ; Methodology : Skin composition and functions; The four selected functions -- Communication : Urania moth (Chrysiridia rhipheus) ; Violet-tailed sylph (Aglaiocernus coelestis) ; Lettuce sea slug (Elysia crispata) -- Thermal regulation : Side-blotched lizard (Uta stansburiana) ; Snow leopard (Panthera uncia) ; Polar bear (Ursus maritimus) -- Water balance : Banana slug (Ariolimax columbianus) ; Dyeing dart frog (Dendrobates tinctorius) ; Ochre sea star (Pisaster ochraceus) ; Namib Desert beetles ) Onymacris unguicularis, Physasterna cribripes) -- Protection : Tree pangolin (Manis tricuspis) ; Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibiux)