Open Architecture Network

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
This shelter articulates the ancient nomadic idea of a dwelling made of textile by putting it in the context of modern technology, extreme environmental conditions and an inadequate logistic infrastructure. The iconography of the structure gives expression to the promise of contemporary technology and regards technological strategies as an essential element for human survival.

The structure is lightweight and self-unfolding and it is made of a robust, airtight outer skin with a polyurethane foam core. The external heat loss from the shelter will be offset by the warmth generated by the body heat of a minimum of five occupants, thus enabling survival up to an outside temperature of -20°C. The body has an optimal volume to surface ratio. It is composed of a number of identical isosceles triangles. These are inexpensive and can be mass-produced.

When the retaining strap is detached, the foam sandwich expands and the shelter takes on its pre-remembered form rapidly and independently. Afterwards the shelter is anchored to the ground with the same strap, which there becomes one element of a self-assembling structure.