Better Shelter

Target Users (Target Impact Group)

Distributors / Implementing Organizations

Better Shelter and the IKEA Foundation

Manufacturing/Building Method

Building kits are prefabricated in their home office in Sweden. Upon arrival on site, Better Shelter staff often offer training to local experts in erecting the structures. A correct, timely and safe installation requires a minimum of four people.

Intellectural Property Type

Select Type

User Provision Model

The Better Shelter Team delivers product building kits to International Relief organizations (for example, 10,000 units to the UNHCR in 2015), and in some cases, send their experts to assist in erecting the structures.

Distributions to Date Status

60,000 shelters had been delivered to 70 countries, where they serve as temporary homes, clinics, class rooms and more

Design Specifications

Design specs and detailed installation instructions are included with delivery.

3 parts: Frame, Polyolefin foam panels, PV System

71 pipes
35 panels
Approximate assembly time: 4 - 8 hours
Man power: 4 people

Building order:
1) Foundation
2) Metal Frame
3) Roof with ventilation and solar panel
4) Walls with windows and door

Technical Support

Instruction manuals are included with the product

Replacement Components

Unknown

Lifecycle

Designed for a lifespan of three years, portions of the structure can be updated over time with more permanent components, such as earthen walls. Warranties are made available only under certain circumstances.

Manufacturer Specified Performance Parameters

Floor area: 17.5 m²
Minimum ceiling height: 1,840 mm
Sphere compliant: Yes
Windows: 4 pieces (640 cm² each)
Ventilation: 2 pieces (620 cm² each)
Door: 1 piece (740 × 1690 mm)
Expected lifespan: 3 years with basic maintenance
Fire safety Tested and classified according to international building standards EN ISO 11925-2:2010 and EN 13823:2010
Resistance to UV load: 2,700h UVA – 100% functionality
Wind speed [EN 1991 EC1]: 18 m/s
Snow loads [EN 1991 EC1]: 10 kg/m²
Modular: Yes
PV system: 4h light/day and USB power
Package weight / volume: 160 kg/1.15 m³
Package A: 1990 × 1090 × 240 mm (85 kg)
Package B: 1990 × 1090 × 290 mm (75 kg)
Pallet dimensions 2010 × 1080 × 140 mm
Container 40 feet HC 48 shelters
Container 40 feet 36 shelters

Vetted Performance Status

Unknown

Safety

Unknown

Complementary Technical Systems

None

Academic Research and References

Compliance with regulations

Tested and classified according to international building standards EN ISO 11925-2:2010 and EN 13823:2010. Developed according to the Sphere minimum standards.

Other Information

Honored at the Swedish Design Awards