The need to inhabit beyond the space: Design of object-based responses for emergency housing

Abstract

The current article deals with the methodological approach that must be considered in order to develop object-based responses within the context of emergency housing. The user-focused design is an approach that involves the final user in the project decisions from the outset of the design process. The application of this methodology not only permits the identification of basic needs but also demonstrates other requirements for habitation related to more complex needs, which cannot be fulfilled without considering every aspect of the individual inhabitant (physical, psychological, emotional and cultural) in the planning of possible solutions. Here, the methodological approach and its implementation in the educational context is presented, as well as the factors to be considered when designing solutions that satisfy people’s needs and requirements to improve their living conditions in an emergency situation.