Reverse biomimetic analogies in design of architectural structures

Abstract

This paper explores the concept of reverse analogies in biomimetic design of architectural structures. Design paradigms based on biological models are engaged in appropriation of the biological forms, processes and terminology. They are grounded in multidisciplinary studies of modes of transposition and implementation of identified principles and natural laws in the discourse of spatial design with the goal of realization of optimal solutions that have certain desired attributes of the biological systems. On the other hand, reverse analogies are related to the application of concepts initially developed in architecture for research in different fields. It should be made distinction between nature as a source of explanation and source of inspiration. While in the context of natural sciences validity of the analogy is essentially important, in the case when the natural phenomena are used as a starting position for design research week form of analogy is tolerable. Even misinterpretations and heretical concepts could be simulative for design. The main advantage of the reverse analogies is in application of the freedom and liberal nature of the architecture that enables development of the concepts out of pure design reasons. Sometimes in the modelling of the phenomena not explained by the nature this approach could be simulative and catalytic. The goal of this paper is to exploit potentials of reverse analogies for deriving patterns or feedback data that can be used for conception and development of strategies and tools, or as an inspiration for formulation of intern morphological processes in design of architectural structures.