In response to an increasing concern for natural catastrophes, garrison architects have developed a modular post-disaster housing prototype for the new york city office of emergency management. the multistory and multifamily prefabricated units can be deployed in less than 15 hours, in various configurations depending on the specific urban conditions. the scheme provides 1- and 3- bedroom configurations, while always featuring a living area, balcony, bathroom, fully-equipped kitchen, and storage space.
The prototype is intended to serve displaced city residents in the event of a natural or man-made disaster. when needed, the living units are delivered to the site, craned into place, and plugged into services. the design utilizes the latest construction technology and adheres to demanding requirements for safety, sustainability, durability, and universality. their flexibility allows for deployment in various urban environments, including vacant lots, private yards, and public spaces.
Each housing module features a balcony, with floor-to-ceiling entry doors and integrated shading to lower solar gain while providing larger windows. the units are built entirely with recyclable materials, cork floors, a double-insulated shell, and without the use of formaldehyde. the design includes the ability for attachment of photovoltaic panels, which serve to reduce pressure on the city energy grid and allow the structures to be self-sustaining.
Over six years of research by the city of new york concerning emergency housing were compiled to inform the project. architect james garrison states, ‘aside from the basics of providing shelter after a disaster, the prototype is innovative because it allows residents to remain within their communities instead of being displaced for months, or even years. “shelter in place” allows residents to maintain their support networks – their friends and their families. keeping neighborhoods intact is crucial for successful rebuilding.’
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