2. Design and Requirements

Temporary housing serves as a critical bridge between immediate shelter and permanent housing, helping affected individuals regain stability and normalcy. This chapter focuses on defining and understanding temporary housing solutions (THS) in terms of minimum requirements and characteristics, providing a valuable reference for engineers and architects when developing THS. First, definitions of emergency shelters, temporary shelters, and THS are provided along with the essential criteria for developing adequate THS according to international standards, i.e., affordability, habitability, cultural acceptability, and accessibility. Then, the technical characteristics of THS are discussed, considering their possible contribution to thermal comfort, including minimum dimensions, shapes, orientation, construction systems, and envelope material characteristics. The importance of using locally sourced, sustainable materials is also discussed, as well as the need for improved thermal insulation and fire-resistant flooring to ensure comfort and safety. The chapter concludes by stressing the ongoing need for research and development to enhance the thermal performance of THS, especially in extreme climates.