Nature Influencing Architecture

Architecture at Zero is a competition to promote ZNE (Zero Net Energy) Architecture projects, in other words buildings whose energy needs are fully assured by their own production of electricity through renewable energies.

In 2012 it was proposed the creation of a student residence or an office building for the University of California in Merced.

One of the winning projects was Cactus, developed in the city of Oporto by the team who joins the Japanese Architect Ren Ito.

The concept that supported the project is the cactus’s ability to adjust to extreme climatic conditions.

Inspired by some cactus morphology and its spikes, the project has a zigzag shape that allows the shadow on itself, as well as blades and directional shading systems in order to avoid the space overheat.

As the cactus open their stomas during the night to allow photosynthesis, the building comprises several courtyards that are closed during the day and open during the night for ventilation and cooling purposes, ensuring a greatar temperature stability.

Like cactus, that have two types of roots, the building allows the collection and storage of rainwater and has a water circulation system that cools the courtyards through evaporation and the increase of the environment’s humidity.

Besides these characteristics, the building roof is covered by photo-voltaic panels and wind turbines are placed in the street. Both techologies ensure the building’s total energetic sustainability.

Here is a good example how Architecture can be inspired by the nature’s simplicity and perfection regarding aesthetics, technology and sustainability.