INNOVATION

LOCAL MATERIAL
FRAME
PANELS
TENT COVER

Testing new shelters

We are testing new shelters in Brazil, India and Türkiye with partners. The pilots assess climate performance and locally available materials, guiding evidence-based improvements for future responses.

The pilots also build on the expertise of humanitarian partners who have previously implemented our shelter system, offering insights into what works well and what doesn’t. We monitor key parameters such as temperature, humidity, and wind, while comparing how easily different materials, including corrugated iron, bamboo, and wooden planks, can be attached to the new shelter frame.

These findings are described in more detail here: pilot testing our new shelter portfolio.

An incremental approach

Our new shelter portfolio is built around a lightweight, durable modular frame that adapts to different materials, needs and budgets. Its flexible design allows for varied sizes, shapes and uses – from shelters to clinics, classrooms and safe spaces.

Deploy

A sustainable product strategy addressing the shelter needs of the millions of people who may face displacement in the future.

An approach to create a modular and versatile shelter framework that can be easily stockpiled and assembled.

Upgrade

A pre-fabricated panel system that offers safety and dignity from the outset, with rapid assembly and versatile applications,

Made of materials which create as little environmental impact as possible.

They serve as temporary structures that can fit into complex humanitarian responses. ​

Upcycle

Enable communities to upgrade with available building materials using local traditions and expertise.

Adapt shelters as local resources become accessible and transform them into more durable buildings in protracted emergencies.

Our design philosophy

  • Human-centred design: Shelter is a process, not a product. Every stakeholder’s perspective matters.
  • Humanitarian imperative: Shelters must be safe and culturally appropriate, guided by humanitarian principles.
  • Prototype: Test early and often, moving step by step from small to full-scale models with user feedback.
  • Invest in innovation: Partner with courageous philanthropies in multi-year programs to enable ideation, prototyping, and impact evaluation.
  • Collaborate to innovate: Work with UN agencies, NGOs, manufacturers, academia, and foundations at every stage of development.
  • Test and verify: Pilot with partners to evaluate safety, performance, and community acceptance.

Projects and news

Collaborate with us

Are you an organisation, student, or humanitarian at heart with an idea to advance shelter research and development?

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