home without a place

Semi Permanent Housing for Global Disaster Relief

Rebuild

This projects explores the idea of sustainability in relation to relief housing, suggesting that a natural disaster provides an opportunity to consciously rebuild with consideration to the environment. These units are temporary and, as such, should not create a large ecological footprint. They are merely a stepping-stone towards recovery and should promote sustainable development – that is development that meets the needs of today without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In this way, they may inspire the victims and those who are witness to the disaster, to do the same.

Reclaim

The proposed design consists of a thin, hollow framework into which dry, upgraded soil is poured. One of the benefits of this design is that virtually any material, provided that it is weatherproof and rigid, can be used for the framework. Because of this, materials can be chosen according to availability, geography and capital. However, as these units are being mass produced, possibly by the thousands, it is imperative that green materials be investigated. Recycled (and recyclable) materials should be investigated and chosen with efficiency and effectiveness in mind. The material’s resistance to corrosion, rotting, termites and other pests must be evaluated.

The primary structural element utilized is Earth. Earth is free, abundant, and ecologically sustainable. It provides superior acoustic and thermal insulation and is fire and termite resistant. The use of a sod roof also provides acoustic and thermal insulation, as well as storm protection. Earth gives the victims back a sense of security through its thick walls that continue to strengthen as they age. By using earth, the act of rebuilding becomes one of reclaiming: the victims are given the ability to regain control over their environment. Earth is also locally available and therefore does need to be transported long distances the site. Further, with earth as the primary structural material, other materials are used sparingly ensuring less energy is used in material production and recycling. This also allows for quick construction and immediate finishing.

Recycle

The shelter can easily be assembled, altered and/or disassembled by unskilled labourers. All joints are bolted through predrilled holes that help to line up elements. If required, extensions can be easily added to the structure with little disturbance to the occupants – panels simply bolt onto external columns. Structures are also easily dismantled – once the bolts are removed the panels simply come apart. Materials can then be reused in similar way, recycled, or composted.

For maximum efficiency with respect to materials and energy, activities that require similar facilities (ie. toilets and showers) could be grouped together and shared. For instance, a shared ablutions block between four or more dwellings would minimize the amount of piping and the number of pumps required. It would also facilitate a simpler and more efficient water collection and heating system. Activities such as cooking and laundry could be shared amongst the dwellings’ occupants, promoting a sense of community and support. This sense of community could also be nurtured with the creation of shared courtyard space between clustered dwellings.

As much as possible, these structures must take advantage of natural resources, reclaiming control over the environment – earth, wind, rain, and sun. Earth, for instance, is used as a thermal and acoustic insulator. The wind and sun are used for power and for temperature control. Because of this, the structure is able to adapt to any site to make the most of wind and sun directions. Rainwater is collected for use as bathing and washing water.

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