Form Finding Lab – Princeton University

The built environment causes major land fragmentation and habitat loss through construction and raw material extraction. However, sustenance and growth of animal populations and diversity can be enhanced through urban master planning, engineered designs of wildlife infrastructure, and adoption of low carbon construction practices. Current master planning and engineering design are mainly focused on efficiency, economy and elegance, all human centric requirements. The goal of this research is to present the first animal-informed urban planning and infrastructure design methodology that generates and enhances bio-diverse habitats and passages based on circular economy principles. The research testbed is the rapidly changing environment of the Princeton University campus and its surroundings. Given that Princeton is endowed with a diversity of animal species, and the area will continue to develop, the site makes a perfect microcosm to study how design can impact biodiversity.