Throughout history, many leading thinkers in disciplines such as mathematics and engineering have been inspired by the parallels between nature and human design. Today the huge increase in biological knowledge, developments in design engineering systems together with the virtual revolution in computer power and simulation modelling, have all made possible more comprehensive studies of nature.

Containing the proceedings of the Second International Conference on Design and Nature, this book brings together contributions from researchers working around the world on a variety of studies involving nature and its significance for modern scientific thought and design.

Over 55 papers are featured and these span the following broad range of topics: Architectural Design and Structures; Architecture and Sustainability; Acoustics; Biology; Biomimetics; Design Philosophy and Methods; Human Biology and Medicine; Materials; Nature and Architectural Design; Space.