Australian architecture firm LAVA exhibited its inhabitable "Origami Cave" as part of The Emergency Shelter exhibition, which was held in Sydney earlier this month. The exhibition featured architects from around the globe including Ateliers Jean Nouvel, PTW Architects, Tonkin Zulaikha Greer, Cox, Koichi Takada Architects, Sou Fujimoto and Terunobu Fujimori. Each architect was asked to create a shelter that would not only protect people from the elements during an emergency situation, but would also provide a space that was secure and comfortable in the aftermath of a disaster.
The Digital Origami Emergency Shelter was inspired by a single water molecule and is made from 100 percent recyclable materials. The base molecule is made out of plywood and can be easily shipped as a flat pack and later constructed for emergency shelter use. Stepping inside the molecule, the shelter accommodates a sleeping space for two adults and one child, and features an additional zone for eating or relaxing. The solar operated LED light brings the shelter to life, and from the outside the shelter looks like a designer Japanese lantern.
Whilst the Origami Cave might not be as practical as the recently discussed Softshelter, the exhibition did help raise funds for the Great Tohoku Earthquake-affected areas in Japan. LAVA's shelter will also be on display during the 2011 Sydney Architecture Festival from October 20th - 30th.
