Better Shelter

Better Shelter
 
Motivated by an ambition to design a more reliable emergency shelter for displaced people, three philanthropic agencies — IKEA Foundation, Better Shelter, and UNHCR — established a partnership to develop the Better Shelter. The flat-pack structures are modular, made of recyclable plastic and a lightweight steel frame, and each unit incorporates a solar panel system to provide renewable energy for a lamp and to charge electronic devices. Assembly takes four hours and requires no expert skill set. With general maintenance and care (e.g. cleaning, tightening screws) the expectant lifespan is three years, surpassing the 6-month average for emergency tents commonly used in disaster relief situations. The concept’s modular design adapts to different climates and cultures while remaining producible in mass quantities as needed. Prototypes were developed beginning in 2010, tested in the field in 2013, and this year, the first production models were deployed following the earthquake in Nepal. With a focus on transport, weight, durability, cost efficiency, safety, and comfort, Better Shelter addresses critical humanitarian needs through prefabrication.