4-Dimensional design: A design strategy for efficient shelter and sustainable housing after conflict-based and natural disasters

Abstract

Catastrophes like wars and natural disasters have occurred over the ages. However, in the last decade the number of emergency situations has increased in a frightening way. Unsustainable human behaviour causing environmental changes and social conflicts undoubtedly contributes to this increase. A global approach for shelter intervention may contribute to efficient relief while supporting a transition from aid to development and helping to prevent future catastrophes. In this paper one investigates how the "4-dimensional design strategy" developed at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (department of Arch & MeMC) can be implemented to reach this goal.