Renderings courtesy of WY-TO

Asia Pacific is the region most prone to natural disasters, accounting for 42.9% of catastrophic occurrences. It doesn’t help that the rate of natural disasters is expected to increase in intensity over the next decade.

In light of the poor living conditions following natural disasters, Singapore-based entities WY-TO and POD Structures have combined their skills as professional architects and engineers to develop a temporary housing capsule, tailored to Southeast Asia’s climate, geography and culture.

Living Shelter is a low-cost and functional housing solution that is easy to assemble. It aims to shelter homeless victims, particularly during the transitional phases following the aftermath of a disaster. When fully constructed, Living Shelter provides the inhabitant with 6 square metres of dwelling space, equipped with basic necessities, such as a water bag for the collection of rainwater, built-in solar panel for lighting, protection from insects and foldable furniture.

Adapting to Asia Pacific’s tropical climate, each Living Shelter will be constructed with materials of low thermal capacity. Ventilation openings in roof spaces, joints and windows, as well as minimal interior partitions will also help regulate airflow. The structure comes with attap roofing and is stilted to catch winds of higher velocity to keep the house cool – common traits seen in traditional kampung housing in Southeast Asia.

Moreover, the collapsible shelter is easy to ship, thanks to its original flat format. Only two to three people are required to assemble each unit and no tools are required. When not needed, components of the system can easily be taken apart to be reused.

The Living Shelter project has been selected to exhibit at the 15th edition of the Biennale de Architettura in Venice. It will be hosted by the non-profit Global Art Affairs Foundation during the exhibition Time – Space – Existence. Visitors are also invited to experience the 1:1 Living Shelter prototype at the Architecture Biennale 2016. During which, the adaptability of the structure will be demonstrated. 

WY-TO and POD Structures have launched an Indiegogo campaign to raise US$40,000 in a span of 30 days to support the fabrication of the prototype, as well as transportation, rental and marketing expenses for Venice. 

After Venice, the prototype will be transported back to Singapore and showcased alongside exhibitions, talks and workshops before being donated to a public foundation or NGO within Southeast Asia to fulfil its core purpose – to help people in need. 

Support the campaign here.