P09 · NATURAL ANALOGUES
Material Connection with Nature
Materials and elements from nature that retain qualities of origin, texture, variation and time.
How to read this pattern
Material connection concerns source, touch, processing, emissions, durability and repair, not appearance alone
A pattern becomes design only when it is connected to people, activities, climate and the specific conditions of the site. Quality matters more than mere presence.
Three design moves
From intention
to a concrete choice
Choose legible materials
Prefer materials that retain grain, temperature and natural variation.
Reduce distance
Consider local supply chains, skills and environmental conditions.
Design for time
Evaluate patina, repair, maintenance, emissions and end of life.
P09 / Repertoire
3 elements
for exploring the pattern
Each card shows one possible translation of the pattern. Applications need to be selected and adapted rather than added automatically.
B37 · 1
Natural Materials
Natural Materials is one possible way to apply Material Connection with Nature. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
- Potential benefits
- Potential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
- What to observe
- Define suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B38 · 2
Age, Change & Patina
Age, Change & Patina is one possible way to apply Material Connection with Nature. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
- Potential benefits
- Potential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
- What to observe
- Define suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B39 · 3
Indigenous Materials
Indigenous Materials is one possible way to apply Material Connection with Nature. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
- Potential benefits
- Potential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
- What to observe
- Define suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
Observe and verify
Signals that can guide
project evaluation
- 01origin and traceability
- 02tactile experience
- 03emissions
- 04durability and repair
These are possible signals, not automatic proof of benefit. Suitable methods and thresholds depend on the project.