Bio-Mimicry – the “Hush Manifesto” for construction

The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that one in four Europeans is chronically annoyed by noise, which translates to roughly 178 million people across the continent. Anecdotal evidence suggests similar problems exist in urban areas worldwide, with thin walls, open floor plans and busy environments contributing to noise pollution within buildings, impacting on people's well-being. While architects and construction professionals have been aware of the situation for many years, the problem still remains, but what if we turned to Mother Nature for inspiration, writes John Ridgeway.

The effects of poor sound control extend far beyond mere annoyance. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that increased noise levels in offices can lead to a 66% decrease in worker productivity. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) reports that chronic exposure to noise at night can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue, daytime sleepiness, and impaired cognitive function. A further study by the American Psychological Association (APA) found that exposure to noise can elevate stress hormones, leading to anxiety and other health problems.

However, while architects and construction professionals continue to come up with new ideas to reduce noise levels, there is another solution. It is called biomimicry, the art and science of learning from nature. Mother Nature has been perfecting sound management for millennia, and architects and construction professionals are starting to tap into this vast wellspring of knowledge – let’s take a look.

Unveiling sound absorption strategies

Forests are havens of tranquillity, and the secret lies in the leaves. Their intricate, porous structures effectively absorb and dissipate sound waves. This biomimicry approach can be translated into the use of bio-inspired acoustic panels, crafted from recycled materials like mycelium (fungus root networks) or bamboo. These panels mimic the sound-absorbing properties of leaves, creating a more peaceful environment within buildings.

Companies like EcoLogic Studio are creating these panels from recycled mycelium (fungus root networks), mimicking the sound-absorbing properties of leaves. These panels have been used on the walls of the Kendeda Building at Georgia Institute of Technology, creating quiet spaces within the bustling campus.

Moths have a superpower - they can fly silently, evading the echolocation of bats. Their secret lies in the microscopic structures on their wings, which disrupt sound waves. This biomimicry concept can inspire the development of microperforated surface materials for use in construction. These materials, incorporating tiny holes strategically placed, can be applied to walls, ceilings, or even incorporated into building elements, effectively mimicking the moth's sound-dampening skills.

Animals like badgers and rabbits rely on their burrows for protection, and these intricate underground homes provide excellent sound insulation. Biomimicry can draw inspiration from this by encouraging the use of densely packed, natural materials like compressed earth blocks or hempcrete in construction. These materials offer superior sound insulation compared to traditional building materials, creating quieter and more comfortable spaces.

Hempcrete, a biocomposite material made from hemp fibres and lime, offers superior sound insulation compared to traditional building materials. The Hammersmith Apollo music venue in London utilised hempcrete for its backstage areas, creating a quieter environment for performers and audiences alike.

Biomimicry extends beyond the right choice of materials. The very design of buildings can be influenced by nature's wisdom. Nature rarely uses straight lines or flat surfaces. Curved walls and recessed ceilings, inspired by natural formations, can effectively disrupt and scatter sound waves, reducing noise transmission within a building.

Living walls and vegetated roofs, which not only enhance aesthetics and air quality, can also act as natural sound barriers. Plants absorb and dissipate sound waves, creating a buffer zone against external noise pollution.

The benefits of green walls and vegetated roofs extend far beyond aesthetics and air quality. Plants, with their ability to absorb and dissipate sound waves, act as natural sound barriers. The Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) in Milan, Italy, is a testament to this concept. This iconic building, covered in lush vegetation, serves as a living wall, creating a buffer zone against urban noise pollution for its residents.

Biomimicry in action around the world

Bio-mimicry is already gaining traction across the globe. The De Kiem School in the Netherlands, is a beacon of sustainable design. The school incorporates bio-inspired acoustic panels made from recycled materials, alongside a vegetated roof that helps absorb sound from the surrounding environment. These features create a quieter learning environment for students, fostering better concentration and improved academic performance.

The Hive in Singapore utilises biomimicry principles in its design, featuring curved walls and natural ventilation systems inspired by beehives. These design features effectively manage sound within the co-working space, allowing occupants to collaborate and focus without noise distractions.

Located in the heart of Sydney, Australia, 1 Bligh Street is a testament to biomimicry in high-rise construction. The building's facade incorporates a double-skin system inspired by the intricate structures found in nature. This system acts as a natural sound barrier, reducing noise pollution from busy city streets for occupants within the building. Additionally, the building incorporates noise-dampening materials and strategically placed vegetation, creating a tranquil haven amidst the urban bustle.

Challenges and the road ahead

In spite of such promise biomimicry in construction, faces challenges. One hurdle is ensuring the large-scale production and cost-effectiveness of bio-inspired materials. Another challenge lies in educating architects, contractors, and developers about the benefits of biomimicry and integrating these principles into traditional construction practices.

However, the potential rewards are significant. Biomimicry can not only create quieter construction sites and buildings but can also contribute to a more sustainable future for the industry. By utilising natural materials and minimising the need for energy-intensive noise reduction methods, biomimicry offers an environmentally friendly approach to sound management.

A collaboration for a quieter world

However, if this bio revolution is to grow it will require collaboration. Biomimicry researchers, materials scientists, architects and construction professionals must work together to overcome challenges and unlock the full potential of nature's sound-dampening secrets. Educational initiatives can play a crucial role in raising awareness about biomimicry by promoting its adoption within the construction industry.

Governments can also incentivise the use of bio-inspired materials and construction practices that prioritise noise reduction. Additionally, fostering collaboration between research institutions and the construction industry can accelerate the development and implementation of innovative biomimetic solutions for quieter construction.

The construction industry has a responsibility to minimise its environmental impact, and noise pollution is a significant concern. Biomimicry offers a powerful and innovative solution, promising a future where construction sites hum with quiet efficiency and buildings become havens of tranquillity. By embracing the wisdom of nature, the construction industry can rewrite the score, composing a symphony of silence that benefits not only occupants and surrounding communities but also the planet itself.

Let’s call it “The Hush Manifesto,” a call to action, an invitation for all stakeholders in the construction industry to join the movement towards quieter construction with biomimicry. Let us harness the power of nature's blueprints to create a future where the melody of progress is one of harmony and quiet efficiency.

Source:

https://www.ecologicstudio.com/https://www.hempitecture.com/products/

https://www.archdaily.com/777498/bosco-verticale-stefano-boeri-architetti

https://www.cepezed.nl/nl/

https://www.hiveoffice.com/

https://www.batessmart.com/projects