Our imagination should do more than dream; it should observe and learn from nature. Kelly Clarkson’s song Piece by Piece speaks about life and love coming together over time. In much the same way, nature assembles and builds things piece by piece. Birds, the original architects, have been designing homes long before Pinterest. With twigs, leaves, and even bits of string, they create nests that are functional, cozy, and beautifully crafted—all without stress or contractor delays. Ethiopian architecture follows the same wisdom, blending tradition with innovation—just like the well-known shopping center, Lideta Mercato, in Addis Ababa.
Designed by Vilalta Architects, Lideta Mercato mirrors nature’s efficiency. Instead of relying on energy-intensive systems, it uses passive cooling and natural airflow—just like birds, who position their nests for comfort and temperature control. Take a closer look, and you’ll see a unique pattern flowing across the outer skin of Lideta Mercato, inspired by the detailed and vivid patterns often seen in Ethiopian women’s dresses. This façade allows fresh air and light to pass through while shielding against heat—much like how birds weave their nests for both protection and breathability.
Birds also build with community in mind, nesting together for safety and shared resources. Lideta Mercato embraces this same idea, creating an open, human-centric space that encourages interaction and natural movement—unlike traditional malls that feel closed off.
The truth is simple: Nature has all the best ideas. By learning from birds and buildings like Lideta Mercato, Ethiopian architects can create smarter, greener, and more intuitive spaces. So, next time you see a bird’s nest, don’t just think, “That’s cute!” Think, “That’s design genius!”
By Frehiwot Nigussie
Architect at SBC Design Consultancy
Instagram: Instagram.com/sbc_designs
Website: www.starboundcreations.com