Local architect Fernanda Ahumada works together with design studio FREE to create the National Biodiversity Pavilion located in Mexico City. It is defined by its dynamic facade that is made from moving aluminum panels that are meant to respond to light and wind. The building itself houses archives of mammals, fish, reptiles, and bird collections by the Institute of Biology throughout three stories.
It has a circular form and is meant to be an interpretation of the "tree of life" concept that explores how all living things are connected. Founder of the studio Fernanda Ahumada explains to Dezeen that "The tree of life is a common metaphor used by biologists to represent the relationship between species. Molecular biologists use this tool today to organize information and knowledge; the architectural program is represented in the building the same way."
Wind-Responsive Panel Pavilions
Fernanda Ahumada & FREE Design the National Biodiversity Pavilion
Trend Themes
1. Dynamic Facade Design - The use of moving aluminum panels that respond to light and wind in the National Biodiversity Pavilion presents opportunities for innovative facade design in architecture.
2. Biologically-inspired Architecture - The interpretation of the 'tree of life' concept in the design of the National Biodiversity Pavilion showcases the potential for integrating biological principles into architectural projects.
3. Data Organization Tools in Architecture - The adoption of the 'tree of life' as a representation of the architectural program in the National Biodiversity Pavilion highlights the possibilities of utilizing data organization tools in architectural projects.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - The innovative use of dynamic facade design in the National Biodiversity Pavilion presents opportunities for advancements in the architecture industry.
2. Materials and Manufacturing - The implementation of moving aluminum panels in the construction of the National Biodiversity Pavilion offers opportunities for advancements in materials and manufacturing industries.
3. Biotechnology and Conservation - The integration of biologically-inspired concepts and collections of living organism archives in the National Biodiversity Pavilion signifies potential areas of disruption for biotechnology and conservation industries.