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Institute for Bio-mimetic Research at TU Delft

Part 2 Project 2003
Hui Hui Teoh
Max Davie
 Bartlett School of Architecture (UCL) | UK
The project seeks to explore the theme of “Mobility”, the topic of the International Architecture Biennale in Rotterdam. I interpreted it as “Metamorphosis” to expand the idea of changes across distance to that of colours, form, function, material and habitat. A butterfly farm is proposed that extends physically and programmatically from the Institute for Bio-mimetic Research sited in the Delft University campus. The insertion of biodegradable enclosures and the releasing of butterflies both enhance and register the serenity of the Dutch landscape. Physical attributes of butterflies and breeding requirements, together with existing technological advancements, further inspire the physical and spatial characteristics of the Institute.




We find this an outstanding project.

It combines a thoughtful and imaginative investigation into biodegradable structures and the application of unconventional building components in architecture.

An Institute for Bio-mimetic Research is proposed as an extension of the Technical University in Delft, in which natural and artificial insects, in particular butterflies are studied. The programme is organised with great attention and the building carefully inserted on the site. Part of its deployable and biodegradable net structure stretches out annually from the city edge into the flatland, integrating a temporary butterfly farm into the frame of a ´Dutch panorama´.

Hui Hui´s witty observations and interest in a wide range of technological phenomena, which she used as architectural references, triggered a highly sophisticated and unusual building. The complexity and beauty of its materiality and spatial arrangement stands out for the numerous components that colonise its surfaces. They were meticulously drawn, creating an entirely personal language, simultaneously subtle, dextrous and full of poetic value. The design is innovative and truly inspiring.




Tutor(s)
2003
Initial observations into metamorphosis of insects suggest the creation of an artificial metamorphosing structure
The artificial metamorphosis uses light energy to trigger a series of physical transformation in terms of form, light, material and habitat. These experiments triggered the programme of an Institute of bio-mimetic Research in Delft, Holland
The site plan locates two parts of the programme: Institute for Bio-mimetic Research on the built edge of the TU Delft and temporary butterfly farm in the rural landscape
Study of butterflies, inflatable telecommunication antennas, deployable reflectors, and giant magnifying glasses suggest the development of biodegradable butterfly net enclosures
Cycle of deploying and biodegrading net enclosures act as biological clock of the site
Study of ´cocoon space´: heat, light and humidity control is critical in determining the rate and success of insect metamorphosis
The changing profile and air pressure within the transparent ´lens´ helps to control the condition within the ´cocoon spaces´
The butterfly net enclosure is an intelligent shelter that biodegrades, releasing the butterflies when external condition is optimal for insects to survive
Temporary butterfly farm inserted in ´Dutch panorama´
Preliminary model of Institute for Bio-mimetic Research
Climatic modifiers: (first and second image) light-sensitive umbrella devices control insulation in laboratories. (third and fourth image) water collecting tree structures work as climatic protectors for open-air exhibition area
´Mist system´ in butterfly breeding area: irrigation of the planting ground and biodegradable nets enhance growth of plants for cocoon growth
´Net system´ in butterfly breeding area: deployable nets for real and artificial insects hanging from track on a removable canopy.
Section and diagrammatic explorations of programme distribution, circulation system and public-private space division
Plans
Elevations (north, south, west, east)
View from west with protruding laboratory vessels, nets and water collecting tree structures
Internal views from butterfly breeding area with magnifying lenses as climatic modifiers on the laboratory façade
External views from open-air exhibition area with visitor path suspended from water collecting tree structures and light-sensitive umbrella devices on the laboratory façade
Photomontage showing site integration: view from east with TU Delft in the background
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