Our Approach: Start with the lived experience
Explore the user perspective
We began by bringing together architects who have personally lived in the shelter system. Their stories, photographs, and emotional insights became the foundation of our work—ensuring that every design decision is grounded in authentic experience rather than assumptions.
Co-creation Workshops
Building on these initial insights, we organized workshops with practicing architects to identify where interventions could create the greatest impact. Through collective analysis and discussion, one critical issue emerged: the profound lack of privacy in shelter environments.
Studying the pilot location
Our Bleskensgraaf site exemplifies the challenges facing temporary housing across the Netherlands. Located in an industrial zone on the outskirts of a small town, this former agricultural showroom was never designed for human habitation.
Environmental Challenges:
- Industrial noise and unpleasant odors from surrounding facilities
- Poor ventilation throughout the building
- Minimal natural light in living spaces
- No acoustic insulation between areas
- Irregular floor plan creating awkward room configurations
Living Conditions:
Multiple residents are often cramped into shared spaces with little to no privacy. The building's commercial origins show in every aspect—from unsuitable layouts to inadequate infrastructure. Residents frequently resort to improvised, sometimes unsafe DIY solutions simply to create a sense of personal space.
These conditions aren't unique to Bleskensgraaf. They represent the systemic challenges of repurposing buildings never intended for long-term human occupancy.
User Research & Validation
To verify our workshop findings, we surveyed current residents at our pilot location in Bleskensgraaf. Their responses consistently confirmed the same urgent need: privacy. This validation helped us focus our design efforts on the one piece of "personal" space residents have—their bunk bed.
“There is no personal space here, there are a lot of people and a lot of noise, which makes us feel irritated”
Design Sprint
We held a three-day intensive workshop with our team of architects who have shelter experience, exploring how bed design could address privacy concerns and improve daily life. Ideas were synthesized into our first prototype, built with mock materials and presented to our construction partner and the Red Cross.
Resident Feedback
After our partner Planemos built a first prototype, we invited residents of the Bleskensgraaf shelter for hands-on testing and feedback. They explored the design, tested features, and shared invaluable suggestions. This session sparked meaningful dialogue and led to crucial design refinements.
“This is so much better! Finally I can sit up straight in my bed and
have personal space.”
Why Co-Creation Matters
As architects, we have tools to improve living conditions—but only when we truly understand them first. No one understands refugee shelter reality better than those who live or have lived in them.
This project is fundamentally rooted in collaboration. Our goal from day one has been closing the gap between designers, users, and supervisors. Co-creation is not just about improving the product—it's a process that empowers residents with confidence, skills, and genuine ownership over their environment.
Co-creation is not just a way to improve a product—it’s a process that empowers residents with confidence, skills, and a sense of ownership.
Get in touch
Interested in bringing privacy cabins to your shelter?
We provide hands-on support, including cost estimates, delivery logistics, and installation timelines tailored to your location.
Support and collaboration
De Wachtkamer is supported by the Creative Industries Fund and implemented in collaboration with the Red Cross and Planemos.