Background

Buildings contribute 30% of global energy consumption and 27% of emissions from the energy sector. To address these critical challenges, researchers are advancing Biomimetic Adaptive Building Façades (Bio-ABFs) as a promising solution to reduce energy use and emissions while improving building adaptability to climate changes. 

The research addresses two significant barriers: the lack of large-scale experimental data and the limitations of existing building simulation tools in evaluating dynamic systems. 

Research Aims

By integrating advanced 3D printing technologies with machine learning, the project aims to optimise real-time performance and improve the evaluation of Bio-ABFs under complex, realworld conditions. Additionally, the team is exploring 4D printing technologies using biomaterials inspired by plant adaptations to extreme climates. These biomaterials have the potential to provide passive, motor-free actuation through hierarchical microstructures, offering solutions to challenges related to durability and scalability in adaptive façade design. 

The dual-scale innovation approach involves: 

1. Motorised shading systems,optimised with AI and 3D printing, designed forfull-scale architectural applications. 

2. Plant-inspired microstructures, fabricated using 4D printing, enabling materialdriven shape morphing at smaller scales. 

The project is led by a multidisciplinary team, including experts from Bodeker Scientific, the University of Canterbury, and Scion, working alongside local partners such as Beca, WSP, and BRANZ. International collaborators, including BioMat and Buro Happold, contribute global expertise to the development of scalable shading prototypes. 

This initiative aligns with New Zealand’s net-zero energy goals, offering scalable solutionsthat integrate AI-driven design-to-fabrication pipelines with biomaterial-based Bio-ABFs. The outcomes aim to enhance building multifunctionality, improve energy efficiency, and significantly reduce emissions, setting a new standard for adaptive and sustainable building designs globally. 

Related Publications

Imani, N.; Le Guen, M.-J.; Bedggood, N.; et al., Biomimetic Shading Systems: Integrating Motorised and Moisture-Responsive Actuation for Adaptive Façades., Biomimetics, doi: 10.3390/biomimetics10100711, 2025.