FlectoLine, an intelligent façade developed by the Universities of Stuttgart and Freiburg as part of the international Flectuation project, has been recognised for its ability to thermally regulate buildings through bioinspired mechanisms. Installed as a prototype in the greenhouse of Freiburg’s Botanical Garden, this architectural solution features movable elements that mimic natural structures such as carnivorous plant traps and insect wings, enabling passive and automatic control of solar radiation based on climatic conditions.

Thanks to its adaptive design, FlectoLine significantly reduces the need for artificial climate control, thereby enhancing energy efficiency and indoor comfort. Its operation relies on a low-pressure pneumatic system that extends or retracts shading modules, maximising solar gain in winter and minimising overheating in summer.

This innovation marks a promising step forward in integrating bioclimatic strategies into building envelopes, aligning with broader goals of energy efficiency and climate resilience.