The beauty of a flower is depicted in paintings, sculpture, and photography numerous times, but in architecture? Until recently, the technology and construction materials didn’t allow for the organic rounded shape of flowers to be represented in buildings, but, now, architects are looking to flowers for design inspiration in constructing green, sustainable buildings. Here at Moravian Florist, we have assembled several of the most forward-thinking and green buildings that are shaped like flowers.
Wuhan. Wuhan New Energy Centre. Photo: Soeters Van Eldonk
Calla Lily
Wuhan, China
Rated one of the most energy-efficient and sustainable buildings in the world, the Wuhan Energy Flower building is an extraordinary feat of green construction. The architects focused on the noble Calla Lily as their inspiration. The angled flower’s roof not only provides its own shade to the tower below, but it also faces the sun to absorb its rays with solar panels that cover the surface. The “pistil” coming out of the center of the flower has wind turbines within to harness the power of the wind. Rainwater is accumulated as well and reused to water greenery and furnish water for the bathrooms. This structure also uses the principle of natural air ventilation for the offices. A truly remarkable building in its design and efficiency – all inspired by the majestic calla lily.
Lotus Blossom
Lotus Temple, Dehli
Lotus Temple view from above
Delhi, India
A superb architectural structure shaped like a lotus blossom, the Lotus Temple is one of the most visited temples in the world. Open to all faiths, religions, and races, this building is remarkable for its pureness of beauty and simplistic organic shapes and lines. The outside of the structure is clad in white marble panels and in front of each of the 9 entrances are reflecting pools in the shape of lotus blossom leaves. The spacious interior can fit up to 2,500 people and has no sculptures or carvings that one would expect to find in a temple. The Baha’i faith believes in the Oneness of Religions and therefore doesn’t have any idols for someone to pray to. There are no priests or ceremonies either. Rather, it is a harmonious, symmetrical gathering place for people of all religions and faiths to come and find some inner peace.
Lotus Inspired Conference Center in Wujin, China
Wujin Lotus Conference Center
Wujin, China
The lotus flower is represented in the three buildings here in its form as a bud, ripened flower, and fully blossomed flower.
Magnolia-like Qizhong Tennis Center
Qizhong Tennis Center
Shanghai
The beautiful magnolia flower is the inspiration for this steel retractable roof.