Abstract

The global refugee crisis demands solutions that go beyond just providing yet another roof over the head. Tents in these camps/settlements are almost always crowded, temporary, poorly made, and often fail to offer any comfort, privacy, or a sense of normalcy in life. This project explores an alternative: modular housing that can be set up quickly and tailored to different needs. These units can be assembled faster, reducing the time refugees spend in unstable and unfavorable conditions significantly. The modular nature of these units allows for customization, adapting to various family sizes. By offering personal space, privacy, stability, and durability, these home-like units aim to help restore dignity and routine in the lives of displaced people. This project looks at how such housing could offer a sustainable and humane approach to refugee accommodation. This work is important not only for its humanitarian impact but also for how it advances the role of industrial design. By putting the user at the center of thinking process, considering sustainability, and working on scalable construction methods, the project aims to demonstrates how industrial design addresses complex global issues. It shares design’s potential to create adaptable, long-term solutions that are functional, emotionally considerate, and environmentally responsible.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Modular construction; Refugees--Housing; Humanitarian assistance; Buildings, Prefabricated; Sustainable design

Publication Date

5-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Industrial Design (MFA)

College

College of Art and Design

Advisor

Stan Rickel

Advisor/Committee Member

Melissa Dawson

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

Plan Codes

IDDE-MFA

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