Includes bibliographical references and index.

Vital design/ Paola Antonelli-- The hybrid frontier-- Beyond biomimicry-- Chapter 1: The architectural hybrid-- Chapter 2: Ecological object engineering-- Chapter 3: Experimental functions--Chapter 4: Dynamic beauty-- Chapter 5: Profiling programs and collaborations.

This presents an emerging and often radical approach to design that draws on research from the life sciences and even incorporates the use of living materials into structures, objects, and processes for the first time. Each chapter introduces a different theme, from designing for ecological enhancement to the use of speculative design and art as teaching tools. Taken together, several of the projects profiled here reflect an overdue shift in societal priorities toward sustainable approaches to building and manufacturing. This unifying purpose is driving increased collaboration between designers and biologists--an essential ingredient in many of the projects--and offers thrilling new forms and functions.