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Stony Coral

By: Amir Shahrokhi
18-01-2011
Systems Research
“Why, then, do reef corals grow into such plant-like shapes? Because, although the polyps are not themselves plants, they have plants within them. The cells in the inner layers of the polyp’s tissues contain tiny cells of an alga, complete with their grains of photosynthesising chlorophyll. And the polyp looks after its captives very well indeed, building its stony cup in a shape that ensures that they can get all the light they need."

The Polyps of a Stony Coral

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Ammonite Sutures

By: christopherconnock
18-01-2011
Systems Research
Ammonites are interesting for two potentially archi-tectonic traits:
1. a blurred linkage between defined inner structure and diffuse exterior patterning
2. the notion of growth or accumulation of components over time

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Butterfly, Thin-Film Interference

By: christopherconnock
18-01-2011
Systems Research
Thin-Film Interference is a familiar point of departure - a troupe - yet many architectural applications focus on macro-pattern mimicry or even applique through pre-engineered coatings or spec'd materials. A bottom-up scripted approach to the relationships required to produce the effect could possibly result in more interesting formal logics and effects.

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Pelican Pouch

By: Amir Shahrokhi
18-01-2011
Systems Research

"The pink-backed pelican uses its distendable throat pouch as a fishing net, scooping fish and crustaceans from the water as it swims. When it opens its bill underwater, the sudden inflow of water carries the prey in with it. Then the pelican raises its head to drain out the water before swallowing the prey." (Foy and Oxford Scientific Films 1982:157)

The Pelican's pouch shows the potential of flexible/expanding membranes at the interface of wet/dry environments.

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