Just as trees, shells and plants are designed by Nature to be strong and efficient, the same characteristics can be achieved in human-made structures.

This lecture, accompanied by stunning model displays and demonstrations, will present Nature-informed designs using a ‘form-finding’ approach that allows buildings to be shaped by forces acting on them. The results will be discussed in the context of structural failures and will be contrasted with famous structures, such as Sydney Opera House, the ‘Nest’, and the O2 Arena - examples of dictated architectural forms.

New, constant stress arch forms will be presented. Their response to loading is so good that materials as weak as snow can be used in their construction. Further comparisons with the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis will provide new design insights. Nature, as a teacher of good design, challenges our belief that… ‘we can build whatever we like’…

This event is suitable for 18+. 14+ are welcome with an accompanying adult.

This event is organised by the University of Warwick School of Engineering and Shared By Resonate.