Mobile and flexible architecture: solutions for shelter and rebuilding in post-flood disaster situations

In August 2005, hurricane Katrina swelled water levels to disaster levels close to the city of New Orleans, USA, bursting levees and leading to 80% of the city being flooded. Though an evacuation order was called, 100,000 people were left behind, either unwilling or unable to leave the disaster zone. 1,500 people lost their lives and damage to property was enormous. Even for the 600,000 families who escaped, many were left homeless for months or even years. Over US$7billion of federal aid was spent on temporary and longer term housing, however, subsequent reports have questioned both the value and the effectiveness of this considerable provision. This is just one of the many disasters that occur worldwide as a result of floods – in spite of the concerted efforts of many individuals and organizations, the fact that such major problems occurred with the post-disaster response in a technically sophisticated and resource rich country indicates that there is considerable room for improvement. This paper examines the way in which portable and flexible architecture has been used in post-disaster situations, its history in this area and some recent examples. It also investigates how designs implemented for other residential, commercial, industrial, military, medical and entertainment functions have potential to mitigate post-disaster problems, with particular attention to post-flood situations. Attention is given to emergency relief specialist systems and standard products; to reconstruction facilities including enablers and construction systems; and to preparedness opportunities for new shelters and building adaptations, and for the creation of flood resistant architectural design. The potential benefits of utilising mobile and flexible architecture are identified and some recommendations are made for guidelines in selecting the most appropriate systems.