Although disaster shelter designs are quite ubiquitous these days, SURI’s accordion-like design is the key to its practicality. The housing system consists of a lightweight framework that encases multiple layers of DuPont Tyvek, a UV-resistant breathable membrane that can be folded and unfolded to extend the structure. This flexible feature allows SURI to be easily flat-packed for fast transport. Additionally, the innovative modular design allows for multiple units to be joined together, allowing for larger dimensions suitable for medical centers, canteen services, administrative offices, etc.
Related: IKEA’s Modular Better Shelter Housing Unit is a solar-powered emergency home for refugees
Along with its versatility, SURI shelters have a number of sustainability features such as solar panels and a rooftop water collection system that filters rain into drinkable water. Interior light can be controlled through adjustable apertures, reducing the need for energy. Additionally, all SURI shelters are constructed with recyclable or biodegradable materials and have a 10-year life span.
According to Pedro Sáez, director of Urbana de Exteriores, the modular design makes SURI an ideal option for emergency humanitarian situations, “The advantage of SURI is that this is a modular system that can be assembled to create a variety of facilities from family dwellings to primary healthcare centres. It is also ideal for emergency field hospitals or mobile operating theatres in advance positions. As the system can be connected in multiple directions it allows for the creation of virtually any type of temporary building.”
+ Urbana de Exteriores
+ Suricatta Systems
Via Dezeen
Images via Suricatta Systems
