National Biophilic Design Awards Winner

NBRS was recently awarded the Building Scale Category in the inaugural National Biophilic Design Awards for our Taronga Institute of Science and Learning Design. The project will also be entered into the Stephen R. Kellert Biophilic Design Award.

The Taronga Institute of Science and Learning is the embodiment of the organisation’s vision of ‘securing a shared future for wildlife and people.’ Collaboration between experts from varied disciplines, occupations and the broader community is essential to this vision, and the building brings those groups together.

The structural concept to design simulates the natural form of branching arms, where the three major hubs - Learning, Science and Visitor Experience – grow from the central atrium. This indirect experience of nature is carried throughout the building with several biomorphic elements. This is evident at the entry, with a hexagonal screen façade inspired by animal skins and cells, the skeletal roof of the atrium that also provides acoustic comfort, and the lecture theatre's timber wrap that mimics bark peeling off a tree.

Local ecology is referenced in the materiality of the natural finish; the form of the main podium mimics the sandstone escarpment it is on, and windows and screens provide views of nature and dynamic natural light. Glass is also used internally to place Taronga’s cutting-edge science and research facilities on-display. This promotes the cross-pollination of ideas between departments and offers opportunities for immersive education.

The habitat learning spaces are the first of their kind in the southern hemisphere and blend living animal habitats with learning. The sequence and hierarchy of multi-layered educational spaces and working areas encourage exploration and discovery while displays throughout evoke information richness.

Biophilic design considerations not only improve the inhabitant’s well-being, but by using natural forms and experiences to elicit awe, they also inspire a deeper connection with the natural world. A crucial step to action on conservation. Learn more about the project here.

What is Biophilic Design

Biophilic design is the practice of connecting people and the natural world of which people are part within our built environments and communities. If we think about design as creatively solving the puzzle of look, feel and function, then biophilic design turns to nature for solutions. Buildings designed with biophilic design as a foundational philosophy are experienced, not just used. They allow humans to gain the benefits of living in spaces that foster a connection to nature.

About Living Future Institute of Australia

Established in 2012, the Living Future Institute of Australia (LFIA) is an Affiliate of the International Living Future Institute (ILFI). ILFI is an environmental NGO committed to creating socially just, culturally rich and ecologically restorative communities. It operates the Living Building Challenge, the built environment’s most ambitious performance standard, and many other visionary programs supporting the transformation toward a living future.