Grace under pressure : investigating a design response in event of disaster

Abstract

A study of local context has revealed that universal relief strategies are failing to meet the needs of those who have just lived through the traumatic experience of losing their primary dwelling. Where as conventional ‘donor’ structures may economically shelter the body, they neglect to address issues of home and belonging. The hypothesis argues that shelter after disaster is not just a temporary solution but rather a ‘starter kit’ with the potential of becoming a home. Hence shelter is the beginning of a process, that involves first a sign of the event of dwelling before it can host a more complex scope of concerns. While acknowledging that the design cannot be site specific, the proposal responds to regional disasters within greater Tshwane region, through a comprehensive investigation of context, climate and selected case studies. Set within the reality of monotonous modular design the project seeks to provide a flexible and innovative shelter typology that can remain on site, providing a period of grace. Thus enabling the displaced to focus on rebuilding their homes without living with the fear of their tent being reclaimed. The project conducts a critical investigation into rapidly deployable structure. The object of the study is to highlight the potential of cardboard as an alternative building material. Copyright