Architecture and design studio Cutwork developed a concept called the Cortex Shelter as a solution for rapidly putting together refugee shelters. The structures rely on metal tubes to form a frame, plus the use of Cortex Composites, a type of flatpack concrete sheeting that can be rolled into place and set into a form with the addition of water. The shell hardens in 24 hours and has the potential to last for decades if maintained. Notably, Cortex Composite is said to be two times stronger than traditional concrete.
The finished structures have high windows as a source of light, as well as ample space for a kitchen, bathroom and even options for solar panels to be added to the roof to generate power.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Flatpack Construction
- There is an opportunity for disruption in the construction industry by creating more flatpack and easily assembled structures.
- Sustainable Infrastructure
- Further development of materials like Cortex Composites has the potential to make infrastructure projects more sustainable and eco-friendly.
- Rapid Shelter Assembly
- A trend towards rapidly assembled shelters has the potential to improve disaster relief efforts worldwide.
Where This Applies
- Construction
- The construction industry can benefit from incorporating more prefabricated and flatpack building materials.
- Infrastructure
- Developments in materials like Cortex Composites could be transformative for the infrastructure industry, making projects more durable and sustainable.
- Disaster Relief
- Rapidly assembled shelters like the Cortex Shelter could revolutionize the disaster relief industry by allowing for efficient and effective shelter deployment in emergency situations.
