New technology may enable architects to create shape shifting buildings that can adapt to their surroundings. Wired reports, "Architects are developing shape-shifting buildings that function like living systems, altering their shape in response to changing weather conditions or to the way people use them. If successful, "Responsive structures" will monitor their internal and external environment and change form to suit any situation."
Implications - Architectural designs that incorporate environmental awareness are an excellent embrace of green initiatives. Companies that can integrate environmentally conscious designs into even the most minute elements of their product design -- like these shape-shifting buildings -- can better ensure they are accepted in the minds of green consumers.
Shape Shifting Buildings
Fluid Structures Adapt to Environment
Trend Themes
1. Shape-shifting Buildings - Buildings that can adapt to their surroundings offer disruptive innovation opportunities for architects and the construction industry.
2. Responsive Structures - Developing structures that can monitor and respond to their environment presents disruptive innovation opportunities for the architecture and engineering industries.
3. Environmental Awareness in Architecture - Incorporating environmental consciousness into architectural designs provides disruptive innovation opportunities for companies looking to appeal to green consumers.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - The architecture industry can leverage the concept of shape-shifting buildings to create innovative and adaptive structures.
2. Construction - The construction industry can benefit from the development of responsive structures that can adapt to changing weather conditions and user needs.
3. Engineering - The engineering industry can explore the potential of shape-shifting buildings to create more sustainable and efficient structures.