top of page
Yuva is a shelter solution with modular and ecological architectural principles that prioritize the well-being of humans and nature.
WHAT IS?
YUVA
STORY OF
YUVA
This process has produced a building model that is simple enough for those in need to build with their own hands, and that also complies with ecological architecture principles: YUVA...
Yuva offers a solution that can be quickly installed, has a minimal environmental impact, and can be produced with local materials thanks to its demountable structure.
The February 6, 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes left hundreds of thousands of people homeless, reminding us all that the housing crisis is an urgent problem. Current shelter solutions such as tents and containers, which are often preferred in disaster areas, are temporary, but they fail to adequately provide both human dignity and an environmentally sensitive approach. These structures not only provide limited comfort; they also leave a large carbon footprint during the moving process and create an environmental burden by producing hundreds of thousands of tons of waste at the end of their lifespan.
We came together as experts from the film industry and the world of ecology to think about how we can be a part of the solution to these challenges. Can we offer a different perspective on post-disaster shelter solutions? Can we provide people with a sustainable and dignified living space, not just a temporary one? We conducted long-term research and development studies pursuing these questions.
Its design combines durability and sustainability, becoming not only a shelter but also a symbol of hope and solidarity. The Yuva Project is the realization of a dream of a future that simultaneously cares for humans and nature. With this model, we aim to show that they can be not only victims of disasters, but also active parts of the solution.
YUVA
PROPERTIES
Modular Design
Yuva has a modular structure that allows for quick and easy assembly. This design, which can be installed in a few hours, does not require heavy equipment. In addition, thanks to its portable structure, 16 Yuva can be loaded onto a truck. These features are ideal for providing fast and effective shelter solutions in disaster areas. Thanks to its modular design, Yuva can be installed in just a few hours, so those in need can feel safe as soon as possible.
Simple Manufacturable Design
Yuva is designed to be produced without any experience or electrical equipment. The panels produced in a closed area (tent, warehouse, truck, etc.) independent of seasonal effects (rain, snow, heat, etc.) can be assembled on site and turned into a Yuva.
Designed with electricity in mind, this structure can be easily installed with just hand tools. This design allows people to produce their own shelter solutions, increasing their self-sufficiency and resilience.
1/5
Sustainable and Circular Design
Yuva is a shelter solution made almost entirely from biodegradable materials, minimizing carbon emissions during production and transportation processes. Built with circular design principles, Yuva offers a cool living space in summer and warm living space in winter thanks to solar and wind energy harvesting.
Knowing the vital importance of water in disasters and emergencies, the Yuva team has added a rainwater harvesting system to the shelters. This system directs collected rainwater to toilets, saving up to 25% in daily water consumption. With these features, Yuva is not only a shelter, but also an innovative solution that protects the environment.
1/6
Circular design means that the materials used can be recycled into nature while minimizing waste. The Nest produced with this design approach meets the UN-Habitat sustainable shelter criteria and serves the principle of “Shelter is not just a shelter, it is a solution to climate change.” Sustainable nests contribute to a more livable world in the future while reducing the impact on the environment.
PSYCHOSOCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS
YUVA
The Home is not only a shelter solution, but also a living space that supports psychosocial recovery for individuals and communities affected by disasters. Designed with a trauma-informed approach, the Home contributes to the healing processes by increasing the resilience of people both at the individual and community level
*“Daily post-disaster stressors—lack of privacy, concerns about safety, inadequate housing—can compound the effects of trauma. Providing safe spaces helps individuals recover.”* (Shelter-MHPSS Guidance Report, 2024, p. 10)
HEALING EFFECTS
YUVA
Safe and Supportive Spaces
A home provides privacy and security needs, allowing individuals to feel safe again. A safe environment supports individuals in regaining their lost sense of security and reducing the effects of trauma.
HEALING EFFECTS
YUVA
The Power to Build Your Own Space
The simple production process of Yuva enables individuals to create their own living spaces. This process restores the sense of control lost in times of crisis and revives individuals’ hopes.
1/3
POSSIBILITIES
YUVA
Different modules to meet different accommodation and common area needs;
•Critical personnel accommodation and critical activity areas
•Physical therapy and rehabilitation units for the disabled
•Community center where women, children and youth in particular will come together
•Housing, offices, temporary classrooms and nursery units for teachers to support education
•Psychosocial support units that provide private areas for group and individual meetings
bottom of page