Many creative people seek inspiration from Mother Nature when designing something, and architects are no exception. Here at Shotwell Florist we have selected some extraordinary architects who sought inspiration for their designs from flowers. The organic shapes represented in metal and concrete in these structures are jaw-dropping. Discover the wonders of these flower-shaped buildings.
Wuhan. Wuhan New Energy Centre. Photo: Soeters Van Eldonk
Calla Lily
Wuhan, China
Built in the shape of a Calla Lily, Wuhan’s Energy Flower tower rises 460 feet into the sky. The pistil in the center of the flower’s roof reaches further into the sky, while at the base buildings in the shape of leaves surround the flower. Identified as one of the world’s most sustainable buildings, this structure is home for Wuhan’s Energy Center which studies and develops new energy technologies. The lily-shaped tower and roof are designed so that it provides shade to the main office buildings underneath. The “pistil” contains vertical wind turbines for generating wind power, and the roof has solar panels for soaking up the sun’s energy to power the building. Rainwater is captured in a basin on the roof and used to provide water to the rooftop garden and the restrooms. The principle of natural air ventilation is also employed providing the offices with fresh air. What an amazing green building!
Lotus Blossom
Lotus Temple, Dehli
Lotus Temple view from above
Delhi, India
The Baha’i House of Worship, aka the Lotus Temple, is inspired by the shape of the lotus flower, which is considered sacred by many people in India. Like a large blooming flower floating on water, the lotus-shaped design reflects the clarity and simplicity of the Baha’i Faith, which encourages the oneness of humankind and oneness of all religions. The outside structure is formed of three rows of nine petals. The first two rows curve inward hugging the inner dome and the third one curves outward at the bottom forming canopies over each of the nine entrances. The inside of the dome is modeled on the innermost section of the lotus flower. The massive dome has 54 structural ribs in a flower pattern just above the nine arches that support the structure. A series of skylights at the apex allows light to enter in the same way it would look when entering a lotus flower. Exterior reflection pools located outside each entrance not only supplies cool air to the inner structure but also helps give the illusion of the lotus flower floating on water. The Lotus Temple is one of the most visited structures in the world and has a capacity for 2,500 visitors. People of all faith, creed, and religion are welcome to this impressive structure.
Lotus Inspired Conference Center in Wujin, China
Wujin Lotus Conference Center
Wujin, China
Designed to resemble the fully blossomed lotus flower.
Magnolia-like Qizhong Tennis Center
Qizhong Tennis Center
Shanghai
The retractable roof resembles the blossoming of the magnolia flower.
