We love everything about flowers – which is why we had to share with you some amazing buildings that were inspired by them. These flower-shaped structures are jaw-dropping in their innovation and beauty, and most are certified green structures as well. The floral experts here at Durocher Florist put together a list of some of the extraordinary examples of flower-inspired building. You’ll be blown away!
Wuhan. Wuhan New Energy Centre. Photo: Soeters Van Eldonk
Calla Lily
Wuhan, China
Wuhan’s New Energy Centre, which is a research institute for developing new sources of energy and sustainability, is designed based on the shape of the Calla Lily. Innovative, artistic, and functional, the Energy Flower structure is considered to be one of the most energy-efficient and sustainable buildings constructed – it is also the largest green building in China. The base of the tower has leaf-shaped buildings and the tower holds the main offices. The calla lily-shaped roof is tilted at an angle which brilliantly offers shade to the offices below. Also, with solar panels covering the surface, the energy of the sun’s rays are capture and used to power the building. The vertical pistil has wind turbines for harnessing the power of the wind and helps provide natural air ventilation throughout the structure. It’s remarkable that such a stunning and zero-carbon emissions building was inspired by the humble yet majestic calla lily.
Lotus Blossom
Lotus Temple, Dehli
Lotus Temple view from above
Delhi, India
Inspired by the beautiful lotus blossom, a flower sacred to India, the architects of the Baha’i House of Worship created a glorious and elegantly symmetrical temple that is open to all people, regardless of faith or religious beliefs. Nine petals in 3 rows surround the interior dome and form the lotus blossom shape. The top two rows of petals curve inward while the bottom row curves outward making a canopy over each of the 9 entrances. The exterior surface is covered in white marble panels resulting in a pristine and shimmery effect. Surrounding the temple are 9 reflection pools shaped like the leaves of the lotus blossom and also give the illusion of the temple floating atop the water. Inside the dome are 54 ribs that mimic the shape of the lotus blossom and along the bottom are nine arches that provide structural support for the massive dome. At the very top of the inside dome are skylights that resemble what it would look like as the sunlight enters a real lotus blossom. With no sculptures, carvings, or pictures to worship, as you would most likely see inside other temples, the only decoration here is the reflection of light and water from the pools. An homage to the beauty and perfection of nature as well as the Oneness of Religions, it’s no surprise this temple is one of the most visited religious buildings in the world.
Supertrees at Gardens By the Bay
Singapore
This nature park is premier outdoor recreation space with structures resembling trees, flowers, and plants.
Bund Tower, Shanghai
Bund Tower
Shanghai, China
A lotus blossom design crowns this 50-storey building in Shanghai.
