The unique collaboration between the IKEA Foundation and the UNHCR has resulted in a new, innovative, safer and more durable shelter for refugee families around the world. UNHCR has placed an order of 10,000 units with the social enterprise Better Shelter. Better Shelter was started by the Housing for All Foundation, a non-profit foundation established by the IKEA Foundation.

With a safe and functional temporary shelter delivered in flat packs, Better Shelter together with the UNHCR and the IKEA Foundation wants to bring dignity and safety to the millions of refugees fleeing violence, armed conflict, persecution and natural disasters. This unique partnership has introduced an innovative approach to designing for refugees and putting their needs at the heart of the development process.

In a groundbreaking example of democratic design (form, function, quality, sustainability and an affordable price), the prototype has been tested and improved by 40 refugee families in Iraq and Ethiopia. Their experiences and needs have been at the heart of the development process. Following the field testing the shelter design has been improved and is now getting ready for production.

The Better Shelter is a temporary shelter designed with special attention to transport volume, weight, price, safety as well as health and comfort. It can be assembled on site without additional tools and equipment, and is fitted with a solar panel and lamp to provide light during the dark hours. The expected lifespan of the shelter is three years.

Production of shelters is about to begin and in the summer of 2015 UNHCR will start delivering shelters to thousands of families in refugee camps.

“Better Shelter will ship 10,000 units to UNHCR in 2015 for use by UNHCR operations globally – and that is just the beginning. We will continue to develop the Better Shelter and also provide other solutions to benefit the many displaced people. Innovation is our strongest driving force,” says Johan Karlsson, Head of Business Development, at Better Shelter.

“The refugee housing unit is an exciting new development in humanitarian shelter and represents a much needed addition to the palette of sheltering options mobilized to assist those in need. Its deployment will ensure dramatic improvement to the lives of many people affected by crises,” says Shaun Scales, Chief of Shelter and Settlement, at UNHCR.

“Putting refugee families and their needs at the heart of this project is a great example of how democratic design can be used for humanitarian value. We are incredibly proud that the Better Shelter is now available, so refugee families and children can have a safer place to call home,” says Jonathan Spampinato, Head of Strategic Planning and Communications, at the IKEA Foundation.