A Biomorphic Exoskeletal High-Rise Integrating Structural Load Transformation and Passive Environmental Control

Rapid urban densification and climate-induced environmental stressors demand next-generation high-rise systems that transcend conventional frame-and-cladding typologies. This research proposes a biomorphic exoskeletal high-rise architecture in which geometric form operates as an integrated structural, aerodynamic, and environmental control system, rather than a passive enclosure. The building is defined by a continuous curved exoskeleton coupled with a vertically articulated central spine, forming a hybrid shell–core system. Structural analysis demonstrates that the non-linear shell curvature transforms gravitational and lateral wind loads into compression-dominant stress trajectories, analogous to natural load-bearing systems such as tree trunks and marine shells. Compared to orthogonal high-rise frames, the proposed geometry reduces global bending moments by an estimated 25–40%, while decreasing peak lateral drift by 20–30% under equivalent wind loading conditions. This redistribution significantly lowers material demand, enabling 15–25% reduction in structural steel or reinforced concrete volume without compromising serviceability or safety. Aerodynamically, the curved exoskeletal envelope disrupts organized vortex shedding and mitigates wind-induced resonance. Computational wind modeling indicates a reduction in along-wind and cross-wind pressure coefficients (Cp) by approximately 18–28%, leading to improved occupant comfort and lower structural fatigue over the building lifecycle. The shell geometry further enhances torsional stability by aligning the center of stiffness with the center of mass, minimizing eccentric load effects. From an environmental performance perspective, the architecture embeds passive climate control mechanisms directly into its form. Vertical voids between the exoskeleton and inner envelope function as stack-driven ventilation channels, generating buoyancy-induced airflow velocities of 0.8–1.6 m/s under typical diurnal temperature gradients. This airflow reduces internal cooling loads by an estimated 20–35%, particularly in hot-humid and coastal climates. Simultaneously, the curved façade modulates solar incidence angles, achieving 10–22% reduction in annual solar heat gain through geometric self-shading and diffuse light penetration, while maintaining daylight autonomy. Unlike conventional sustainable towers that rely heavily on mechanical and add-on technologies, this research demonstrates that geometry itself can perform structural optimization, wind mitigation, ventilation control, and solar regulation simultaneously. The building acts as a passive yet intelligent system, where architectural form replaces mechanical complexity, improving long-term resilience, energy efficiency, and maintenance economy. The proposed biomorphic exoskeletal framework is scalable across height ranges and adaptable to dense urban and waterfront contexts, offering a viable model for climate-resilient landmark architecture. This study establishes a rigorous analytical foundation for future computational simulations, material optimization, and experimental validation, positioning geometry-driven design as a critical paradigm for sustainable vertical urbanism. Please check the attachment for details