The Ikea Foundation, the Refugee Housing Unit (RHU) from Sweden and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) have pooled resources to develop a modular dwelling to house refugees and other displaced persons. The 55 square-foot unit has a steel skeleton with lightweight but durable plastic panels for the ceiling and sides. Unlike tents often used in refugee camps which last about six months, this shelter is made to last up to three years. Like an Ikea product, it is functional, easy to transport and assemble and has a photovoltaic system for electricity and light. Currently priced at $10,000 each, the goal is to reduce the price substantially once the final design is mass produced, so eco-business.com informs MHProNews. A field test is presently being conducted with the Somali refugees in Ethiopia, allowing the UNHCR partner organizations to make adjustments on the design of the shelter. “Just as Ikea looks for innovative ways to create a better everyday home life for many people, the Ikea Foundation is looking for ways to create a better everyday life for poor families who have lost their homes and everything familiar to them,” said Per Heggenes, Ikea Foundation chief executive officer.

(Image credit: eco-business.com–Ikea modular for housing refugees)