Biomimicry – Adaptive Dome Grid-Shell Structure

Phyllotaxis – the formally growth pattern of leaves – will follow a spiralling pattern in certain specimen. Our research is focused on studying and producing dome structures that follow the logic of these geometric governing rules. Efficiency governs a plant’s form: leaves are laid out to maximize photosynthesis: they steadily grow in a Fermat’s spiral with Fibonacci numbering. Guided by these principles, we are primarily focused on producing dome structures in urban environments that use these growth patterns to mediate and adapt between buildings to create new environments. We address issues of construction logistics for packaging and fabrication, performing material research in metal, wood, or polycarbonate ribs to support line weight EFTE cushions to make a membrane that brings light into these spaces.