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Boulder Herbarium

Biomimetic Design for Natural Preservation

and Public Exhibition

A collaboration with Luke Rainey, Stephen Strohm, and Adam Grossman.

An academic study on biophilic design as an exploration of form, hierarchy, and space in repeating modules. Examination of local flora and fauna informs design decisions as the module repeats across the site to teach users about the local area while preserving plant specimens in dried and live forms.

Process

Observe Nature

Observe and illustrate local plant life to identify common design elements

Scarlet Firethorn

A resilient shrub known for its dense thorny branches, vibrant berries, and fragrant white flowers.

 

The extensive root system stabilizes soils, prevents erosion, and filters pollutants while its fruits + flowers support pollinators and local wildlife.​​

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Yellow Sweet Clover

Native to Eurasia and introduced to Africa, Australia, and North America, the Yellow Sweet Clover is known for its distinct yellow seeds, resilience, and fast growth. Yellow Melilot is a favorable introduced species for pollinators and can help  balance unstable ecosystems.

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Chinese Rose

Also known as a Bengal rose, this flower is native to Southwest China. The first recorded documentation of this rose was in 1768.

 

The shrub grows to 1-2 meters in height and forms into a hedge. The natural flowering period is from April to September.

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Dames Rocket

A fragrant biennial plant known for its tall, slender stems, vibrant clusters of purple, pink, or white flowers, and lance-shaped, toothed leaves.


Blooming from late spring to early summer, its flowers attract a variety of pollinators, while its ability to self-seed readily helps it spread and create lush, colorful landscapes. 

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Abstract Designs

Study forms and structures of the plant and abstract into repeatable units

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Translate Units

TYPOGRAPHY

Translate design concepts into practical, modular, units for use across the site​​

Floral  Concrete Bricks
Simple

Simple construction and forms ensure consistent, clean molds. 

Structural

Large massing with subtractive detailing  limits breakage.

Stackable

Symmetry and flat edges on all axis promote hassle-free stacking

Repeatable

Aggregate molds  stable for multiple pours and uniform units.

Module Development

A variation of concrete prototypes explored hierarchy and stability as juxtaposing themes. While negative space allows perception of form and depth, it creates vulnerabilities at a structural level when considering mass replication. 

Modular configurations provide different feels and  coverage when explored at different scales. 

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Final Renderings
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