Capsulle

A living space for the displaced

Group project with Keisha Herrera,

Cesar Virgen and Ryan Yokomo

fall 2021 | 4 months

Problem

When people are displaced due to natural disasters they often have to stay in school gyms or community centers that lack privacy, comfort, and activities for children.

Opportunity

A comfortable area for families to stay that offers privacy and space to figure out next steps

California Fires

Living in California my team and I have all seen the devastating effects of natural disasters, especially fires. While personally I have not been displaced, I have met people who were affected by the 2017 Santa Rosa and Napa fires. Living between both cities many people came to my work to buy clothes after losing everything. Hearing their stories was so touching and really eye opening.

A focus on kids

 Why Play?

These type of events are often mentally damaging especially to children who are unable to process what is happening. Giving kids a chance to play can help them process.

A typical shelter

Through research and interviews we found that typical shelters lack privacy, are noisy, and people crave connection

How might we create a positive experience for communities in the wake of disaster?

calm | modern | comfort | fresh | harmonious

A place for families to connect

A calming environment for healing

Offer a place for kids to play

Panel Exploration

I focused a lot on the panels exploring shapes and interactions 

 Privacy Module

Rest and Restore Module

What’s inside?

The rest and restore module serves a bench but also contains supplies such as:

  • 6 foldable seats

  • 4 cork mats

  • 3 storage bins (comes with comfort kit)

The logistics

Implementing Play

Each panel connector is also a place to draw using Boogie Board technology. This allows kids to draw or adults to plan.