New
New
Nature and architecture
I can design an architectural structure which takes inspiration from nature.
Lesson 4 of 6
New
New
- Year 7
Nature and architecture
I can design an architectural structure which takes inspiration from nature.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- We can find amazing architectural structures in nature, such as the bees' nest and the snail shell.
- Architects have used the structure of organic forms from nature in their building designs.
- Drawing from natural forms can inspire architectural designs.
Keywords
Form - the visual appearance, structure or constitution of an object, referring to three dimensional objects
Structure - built elements such as buildings, streets, roads, parks, and bridges
Scale - the relative size or proportion of an object or artwork to its surroundings or itself
Common misconception
There are no new ways to be inspired by nature.
We can all find new things that inspire us in the world around us.
The Additional materials contains images to support drawings should you not have access to natural forms. Recording the development process photographically for pupils' sketchbooks will enable opportunities for later reflection and evaluation.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Papers, charcoal, scissors, rubbers, putty rubber, tape, natural forms. Camera or digital device for photographic recording of the development process.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What does "form" refer to in art?
What does "form" refer to in art?
The use of colour in a painting.
The way lines create movement.
The texture of a surface.
Q2.Match the description to the correct answer.
Match the description to the correct answer.
Q3.Why do architects look to nature for inspiration in building design?
Why do architects look to nature for inspiration in building design?
Nature doesn’t influence architecture.
Nature’s shapes are only used for decoration.
Nature’s shapes are only useful for garden design.
Q4.What does scale show in relation to other objects in art?
What does scale show in relation to other objects in art?
the texture of the objects
the shape of the objects
the colour relationships between objects
Q5.How does scale help create depth in a piece of art?
How does scale help create depth in a piece of art?
by using bright colours
by changing the texture of objects
by adding more objects to the composition
Q6.Match the description to the correct natural structure.
Match the description to the correct natural structure.
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Why do artists and architects observe natural structures?
Why do artists and architects observe natural structures?
to copy them exactly in their artwork
to avoid using any colour in their work
to make their artwork look digital
Q2.What is the first step in recording a natural form?
What is the first step in recording a natural form?
drawing the form from memory
using a digital tool to create it
painting the form with bright colours
Q3.Select the different ways you can experiment with composition and structure when drawing.
Select the different ways you can experiment with composition and structure when drawing.
Copy another person's design.
Leave your work as it is.
Q4.What is the best way to show the scale of a building in a design?
What is the best way to show the scale of a building in a design?
Use a ruler to measure the building.
Draw only the outline of the building.
Ignore size completely.
Q5.Which natural structure inspires strong, efficient designs in architecture?
Which natural structure inspires strong, efficient designs in architecture?
clouds
waterfalls
sand dunes
Q6.How can design be inspired by nature? Match the descriptions.
How can design be inspired by nature? Match the descriptions.
