Biomimicry

Photo from the Biomimicry Institute

This term has been floating around now for a while in this era of sustainability. What does it really mean and why is it important? The Biomimicry Institute defines the term as:

“The science and art of emulating natures best biological ideas to solve human problems.”

Established by biologist Janine Benyus in 1990, it looks to the natural world for ideas and inspiration for all kinds of opportunities. The goal is to create sustainable products, processes and policies, and new ways of living that are able to endure just as nature does on its own. There are over 2100 amazing case studies and products that have been created by incorporating biomimicry. The Olympic swimsuit emulating a shark's skin, a sunscreen resembling the high UV protection as hippos do, and the lotus leaf that resulted in amazing fabric protection. Here are some examples:

• Otter Inspires dry, warm clothing that uses fewer chemicals, saves energy in manufacturing and can be recycled
• Dolphins inspire efficient flight
• Learning from Prairies How to Grow Food Sustainably

“How to Clean with out Cleaners” –Learning from the lotus plant!

The crevices of the rough texture (I bet you thought it was smooth!) of the lotus leaf traps air in which the water rolls off naturally cleaning the dirt off the surface. Biologists have learned from this phenomenon and created GreenShield, a protective fabric finish made by G3i. This consumer product is 8 times less harmful then other chemical treatments and provides excellent stain repellency. How wonderful is this!!

For more information on biomimicry and other case studies, go to the Biomimicry Institute.

-Kieffer Design Group

http://www.kiefferdesigngroup.com/

Inspiring Outdoor Living Spaces

Get Inspired... Outside!

Its August, already! I did NOT want to see this beautiful time of summer pass by without highlighting one of my favorite spaces. I get most inspired in the great outdoors, but sometimes I have to be in doors and just look out! It is so important to create those inspiring spaces where you can do both at the same time - indoor/outdoor living or working.

When I acquired our office building in downtown Boise a few years ago, we had a small gravel 2 stall parking area behind the building. It just didn’t make as much sense to maintain that space as parking when there were several other great alternatives. This space seemed to have such high potential for something better! And that it is - we get so much use out of our “zen” courtyard including: employee lunches, staff gatherings, client meetings, etc.

Here are a few photos of our patio I thought you might like:

I especially like the view from my desk in my office:

So... Just imagine the waterfall softly flowing and the birds chirping around the bamboo trees…ahh! And Yes, I do actually get work done in this space... it is my most inspirational spot!

Some materials that I think are mandatory to make a balanced outdoor space are:

• Natural Stone or Rock
• Lush Live Plants
• Metal of some sort
• Wood Element
• Water
• Fire is an Option
• Easy access to inside and out (preferably large openings)
• Lighting for Accent (preferably solar or another sustainable source)
  
  It doesn't always have to be a big space either - you can create a big feel in a little space almost anywhere!

Here are some other outdoor relaxation and inspiring spaces I really like!

photo courtesy of hgtv.com

On this Brooklyn rooftop, beach-style plantings surround informal furniture creating naturalistic boundaries between neighboring buildings.

Photo Courtesy of Western Art & Architecture Magazine

photo courtesy of hgtv.com

The telescoping pocket door that disappears into the wall provides seamless transition from indoor to outdoor. When entertaining bring out some indoor furniture and plants, even some lamps, to give it a cozy feel.

Photo Courtesy of Kieffer Design Group

Photo Courtesy of Western Art & Architecture Magazine