A submission for the 2010 AIA Ideas Competition. The objective of the brief was to explore the issue of temporary relief housing that could also have a permanent function.

Relief structures must be easily transportable, simple to erect with a limited range of components, and capable of adaptation or relocation over time.  Our design uses a basic palette of structural aluminum components and lightweight partitions that can be configured to suit various needs, from single-room emergency shelters to family dwellings.  Construction can be community-led without the need for specialist assistance.

A geometrically derived tartan grid provides loci points for each layout within a standard 40 x 40 feet footprint.  The grid can be extended as an urban planning template, with a weave of open and enclosed areas that provides both practical amenity zones and ‘defensible space’ for psychologically vulnerable occupants.  Interior decks and courtyards extend this feature into the private realm.