Bio-inspired Shading

Dylan Beckwith + Victoria Febrizio

The goal of the project was to weave modular shading components throughout parts of the building facade to modulate sun exposure.

Research on the Cholla Cacti was carried out to understand how it protects itself by staying cool with its intricate molecular rib design that provides shadow and enhances heat radiation. The cacti are exposed to the harsh climate conditions of the desert. Its designs becomes unique because it has a low heat-reflecting capacity, however their surface is reduced to cut down on evaporation. Nature has responded to its need and given it cooling ribs that shade its surface against the sun. The vertical cooling ribs alternates light and shade by manipulating air currents to improve heat radiation.