Building envelopes play a key role in shaping energy use and indoor comfort, yet most are still static, designed for average conditions rather than real-time change. In contrast, natural systems adapt continuously and efficiently to their environment.

This research explores biomimetic adaptive façades (Bio-ABFs) as a way to create more responsive, energy-efficient buildings. It combines biomimetic design, building performance simulation, AI, and advanced fabrication to enable façades that adjust in real time. The approach operates at two scales: at the building level, AI-driven systems optimise elements such as dynamic shading based on climate and occupancy; at the material level, plant-inspired materials respond passively to environmental changes like humidity, without external energy. The work spans simulation and control, prototype development, biological analysis, and 4D-printed materials, contributing to climate responsive, low-carbon architecture.

About the speaker

Dr Negin Imani is an interdisciplinary researcher specialising in biomimetic architecture, with a background in architectural engineering. Her work focuses on developing adaptive, energy-efficient building systems by translating biological principles into façade design and sustainable technologies. She has so far led two New Zealand government-funded research projects in this area. Her research spans architecture, engineering, and biology, and she has co authored several books, including Heating with Wolves, Cooling with Cacti and Biomimetic Buildings: Copying Nature for Energy Efficiency, and Biomimetic Adaptive Buildings.

Dr Imani has taught in New Zealand and internationally, and is the founder of Biomimicry New Zealand, a Guest Editor for Biomimetics (MDPI), and a regular invited speaker. Her current work explores biomimetic adaptive façades integrating AI and advanced 3D and 4D printing.

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