Miami-based NC-office has developed a prototype for natural disaster relief housing, specifically to the needs in Haiti. The houses' floor plans consist of five square, forming an L-shape to provide space for a garden. The structures are composed of steel beam framing to withstand extreme weather conditions, and openings at the top and bottom of the house allow for views to the garden and heat to escape the interior. There is no actual glazing in the home, but mosquito nets and panels allow for the safety from nature's outdoor conditions. A cistern collects water for occupant use, and a 1 KW solar panel system provides electricity to the house.
This is a great example of simple design that doesn't place stress on the environment. I love the colors used, too. This house almost looks like a more tropical Eames case study to me.
