Biomimetic Design in Architecture: A Systematic Review and Five-Dimensional Framework for Sustainable Building Performance

The built environment faces increasing pressure to reduce building energy demand and improve environmental performance in response to climate change, rapid urbanisation, and increasing thermal stress. Building façades play a critical role in mediating heat, light, moisture, and air exchange between indoor and outdoor environments. Biomimetic design provides an alternative approach by translating biological principles, processes, and adaptive mechanisms into architectural façade strategies. However, existing research remains fragmented on how biological principles translate into façade design and how these strategies influence building performance. This study therefore asks: How are biomimetic principles applied to building façades, and what performance outcomes are associated with these applications? We conducted a systematic review guided by PRISMA 2020; and qualitative thematic analysis using major academic databases. The search identified 109 relevant studies published between 2021 and 2026. The studies were analysed to identify recurring biological analogues, biomimetic design strategies, façade mechanisms, and reported performance outcomes. The synthesis identified five recurring dimensions of biomimetic application: nature as form, nature as process, nature as system, nature as material, and nature as adaptation. The reviewed evidence indicates that biomimetic façade strategies, including thermoregulatory systems, adaptive shading, hygroscopic materials, and bio-based materials, have been associated with improvements in thermal regulation, energy performance, and indoor environmental quality. These outcomes are primarily linked to passive environmental regulation, adaptive responsiveness, and the integration of façade behaviour with environmental conditions. The findings provide an evidence-based framework for understanding the translation of biological principles into façade design while highlighting the need for further empirical validation of their long-term energy performance, adaptability, durability, and practical implementation.