This Amazon Rainforest Pavilion Explores Biomimicry in Architectural Form
Amy Duong — December 5, 2025 — Art & Design
References: competition.adesignaward
The Amazon rainforest pavilion is a concept by architect Nathalia Cristina de Souza Vilela Telis designed for Iquitos, Peru, to reconnect visitors with nature through low-impact construction and environmental integration. The circular structure spans 31.5 meters in diameter and uses bamboo as the primary material due to its regional availability, structural flexibility, and low embodied energy.
An opening at the top introduces natural light into the central space, while water flows down interior walls to create ambient sound that supports a calm sensory environment. Plantings are incorporated along the perimeter to merge vegetation with the built form.
The second level rises to 14 meters and provides views of the surrounding forest canopy and the nearby river. Passive ventilation channels and controlled daylight help reduce reliance on mechanical systems. The layout draws from biomimicry principles to shape circulation, shading, and acoustic qualities while minimizing disturbance to the local ecosystem.
Image Credit: Nathalia Cristina de Souza Vilela Telis
An opening at the top introduces natural light into the central space, while water flows down interior walls to create ambient sound that supports a calm sensory environment. Plantings are incorporated along the perimeter to merge vegetation with the built form.
The second level rises to 14 meters and provides views of the surrounding forest canopy and the nearby river. Passive ventilation channels and controlled daylight help reduce reliance on mechanical systems. The layout draws from biomimicry principles to shape circulation, shading, and acoustic qualities while minimizing disturbance to the local ecosystem.
Image Credit: Nathalia Cristina de Souza Vilela Telis
Trend Themes
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Biomimicry-inspired Architecture — Drawing from natural ecosystems, this trend involves designing structures that mimic biological forms and processes to promote sustainability and harmony with nature.
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Sustainable Material Usage — Emphasizing regional and eco-friendly building materials like bamboo can significantly reduce a building's environmental impact while enhancing its adaptability.
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Sensory-integrative Spaces — Creating environments that engage multiple senses—such as sight, sound, and touch—enhances user experience and fosters a deeper connection with the surrounding natural world.
Industry Implications
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Eco-friendly Construction — This industry leverages sustainable practices and materials in construction projects to reduce carbon footprints and promote environmental conservation.
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Bamboo Products Manufacturing — Producing and utilizing bamboo components in construction and design offers eco-friendly solutions due to bamboo's rapid renewability and structural robustness.
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Landscape Architecture — Fusing built environments with native vegetation in architectural plans emphasizes environmental integration and ecological mindfulness.
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