van Rhijn, Ronel2024-07-192024-07-192023http://hdl.handle.net/11660/12715Dissertation (M.Arch.(Architecture))--University of the Free State, 2023In an era when commercial space travel has become a reality and Lunar habitation is no longer fiction, the future Lunar visitors’ city emerges. With world-renowned architecture firms collaborating with space agencies on space architecture and the ongoing developments of NASA and SpaceX, the possible identity of Lunar architecture is explored. How can biomimicry with architecture be applied to create an immersive future visitors’ city on the Moon and contribute towards a Lunar architectural identity? This explorative thesis transcends the boundaries of traditional design, embracing the challenge of replicating Earth’s comforts and familiarity on the Moon. It invites visitors on an extraordinary journey to a world where technology sustains life, the Earth hangs in the distant sky, and the Moon’s reduced gravity offers unique opportunities for exploration. The book, “𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘐𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘢 𝘊𝘪𝘵𝘺”, by Kevin Lynch, was thoroughly studied. The concept of biomimicry and relevant precedent studies were examined and applied. This was done to gain a thorough understanding of how humans perceive a new environment and how to design comfortable and relatable architecture. Furthermore, inspired by Le Corbusier’s notion of architecture as a machine, this thesis conceives the Lunar centre as a self-sustaining life-support system. It delves into the intricate details of providing essential services such as food, water, oxygen, sewage management, and power within the context of the Moon. Through science and architecture, the vision harmoniously combines functionality with an immersive visitor experience, catering to both scientific researchers and adventure-seeking tourists.enDissertationUniversity of the Free State