Learning from nature: biomimicry-inspired daylighting design for reducing artificial lighting in urban buildings

Abstract

Urban buildings are major contributors to global energy consumption, with artificial lighting representing a significant share of operational electricity demand, particularly in dense urban environments with limited daylight access. Improving natural daylight utilisation has therefore become an important strategy for enhancing building energy efficiency and reducing environmental impacts. Biomimicry, which involves learning from natural forms and processes to solve human design challenges, offers promising opportunities for developing innovative daylighting strategies in architecture. This study evaluates the effectiveness of biomimicry-inspired daylighting strategies in reducing artificial lighting demand in urban buildings. A comparative multiple case study approach was adopted, examining five international buildings incorporating nature-inspired façade systems: Institut du Monde Arabe (France), Sinosteel International Plaza (China), Habitat 2020 (China), Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay (Singapore), and Al Bahar Towers (UAE). Data were collected from architectural documentation, published studies, and reported daylighting performance indicators. The analysis identified key biomimetic daylighting strategies, including adaptive kinetic façades, parametric shading systems, responsive building skins, and geometric façade patterns. Findings indicate that these strategies improve daylight distribution and reduce artificial lighting demand by approximately 20–80%, depending on climatic context and façade configuration. As an exploratory secondary-data-based comparative study, the findings provide an initial foundation for understanding how biomimicry-inspired façade systems contribute to daylight optimisation across different climatic contexts. The study highlights the potential of biomimicry-inspired façade systems to support sustainable and energy-efficient urban building design.