# Tree-Inspired Solar-Powered Shopping Centers This Marketplace is Made with Biomimicry Technology By Elena Rahman | Published 2021-06-02 | Eco Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/biomimicry-technology References: [dornob](https://dornob.com/tree-inspired-solar-powered-shopping-center-offers-a-twist-on-traditional-chinese-markets/) & [koichitakada](https://koichitakada.com/projects/solar-trees-marketplace/) Australian firm Koichi Takada Architects used biomimicry technology to design this tree-inspired solar-powered shopping center in Shanghai, China. The non-traditional marketplace modernizes the ancient public space while retaining its main characteristics. The new design will instill a sense of discovery and connection to the country's open-air markets with an environmentally conscious twist. The three-story development is currently in its last stages of construction. Boasting 32 architectural "trees," shoppers will have an indoor-outdoor experience as they weave through an [artificial canopy](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wonderwoods-vertical-forest). This will provide shelter from the rain and shade from the sun, while the canopy's surface acts as [solar panels to power the marketplace](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/solar-electric-pavilion). In addition, [modular market stalls](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mercado-nicols-bravo) are included in the design to further instill a sense of authenticity. Image Credit: Dornob ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.2/10 - Popularity: 73% | Activity: 42% | Freshness: 10% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) > [Eco Architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/ecoarchitecture) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Biomimicry Design:** Opportunity for businesses to imitate nature’s patterns to create eco-friendly solutions and architectures that reduce their carbon footprint and inspire green innovation. - **Solar-powered Architecture:** Opportunity for businesses to incorporate solar panels and other renewable energy sources into their infrastructure and create more sustainable buildings. - **Indoor-outdoor Shopping Experience:** Opportunity for businesses to incorporate outdoor elements in their retail brands and create immersive experiences for customers that enhance engagement and loyalty. ### Who This Affects Most - **Architecture:** The industry can capitalize on biomimicry research to design innovative structures that promote sustainability and environmental conservation. - **Renewable Energy:** The industry can promote the adoption of clean energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create a more eco-friendly future. - **Retail:** Retail brands can leverage indoor-outdoor designs to create memorable shopping experiences that align with their values and mission, while promoting eco-friendliness and sustainability. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Tree-Inspired Solar Panel Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/solarbotanic-energy-tree.md) - [Draped Plant-Design Shopping Centers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/calwer-passage.md) - [Bamboo Forest Structures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/amazon-rainforest-pavilion.md) - [Zen-Like Shopping Malls](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zenlike-shopping-mall.md) - [Tree-Inspired Panelled Workspaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hood-design-studio.md) - [Balanced Retail Atmosphere](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/capitamall-skyview.md) - [Futuristic Commerce Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/deji-plaza-phase-ii.md) - [Algae Lit Retail Caves](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aesop-hainan.md) - [Community Market Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mercado-nicols-bravo.md)