The Development of Typologies, Design Patterns and Scaled Models Bio-Inspired by Mangrove Species

Mangrove is unique type of plants with distinctive roots that inhabit rivers or beaches.
It is estimated that more than 36 species of mangroves have been identified in Sungai
Merbok, Kedah, Malaysia alone and it is considered to be one of the largest collections of
mangrove species in the world. Analogy is a process where the ideas are depicted or
illustrated from a subject matter is a common process for designers and artists whom using
nature as source of inspirations. Every part of the plant shown a different variation of roots,
fruits, flowers, leaves and other physical parts according to the species or family name. The
aim of this study is to observe, identify, and translate the common physical forms of the
mangroves into series of patterns and to record the findings on the preferences of the
potential consumers towards the scaled models developed. This study can be divided into
two phases and it is estimated that 265 basic design patterns were sketched and developed
in the first phase. Then the design patterns where chosen to be developed as 4 scaled models
and it was showcased publicly in the art exhibition. To find out more on the preferences of
potential consumers, a survey was performed for three months. About 494 responses
received and the findings were analysed and discuss on which scaled models is preferred
the most. This study is also done to explore potential of mangroves to be developed further
in different forms of design, especially in industrial design field.