top of page

Shelter Project

This project focuses on designing a shelter for a community recovery program in the Fens that supports individuals recovering from brain injuries. The shelter is designed to protect from the elements while balancing communal and private spaces. Key features include a central fireplace for socialising and cooking, pivoting wind struts for airflow control, and a structure that harmonises with the surrounding landscape, creating a restorative environment for reflection and healing.

The shelter project was developed in response to a brief from Simon, a community leader running a recovery program for people affected by brain injuries in the Fens. 


His program uses outdoor activities like planting, digging, and woodworking to aid rehabilitation by enhancing motor skills and emotional well-being. However, the harsh weather conditions of the Fens—strong winds, rain, and flooding—necessitated the creation of a shelter that could offer both protection and comfort.


Drawing inspiration from personal experiences living in the Fens, our design prioritises integration with the landscape. The structure features adjustable pivoting wind struts, allowing users to regulate airflow and sunlight, adapting to the unpredictable weather. A central fireplace serves as the heart of the design, providing warmth and a gathering space for social interaction and cooking, key aspects of community-building and healing.


Balancing communal and private areas was essential to address the emotional needs of those in recovery, who may sometimes require solitude. The design promotes accessibility, comfort, and a connection to nature, making it both functional and reflective of its purpose. Careful material selection and practical construction considerations ensure the design is cost-effective and feasible for the community.


This project exemplifies thoughtful, human-centred design, embracing environmental challenges and the restorative power of nature to create a space that fosters connection, reflection, and recovery.

Project Gallery

bottom of page