![Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/dezeen_Softshelter-by-Molo_1.jpg)
Softshelter by Molo
Canadian studio Molo has designed a system of paper partitions that provide privacy at shelters in the wake of a disaster.
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/dezeen_Softshelter-by-Molo_8.jpg)
Called Softshelter, the walls create a sense of community and personal space despite the bleak conditions of emergency shelters.
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/dezeen_Softshelter-by-Molo_7.jpg)
Like an accordion, the kraft paper walls can expand and contract until they meet the edge of another wall.
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/dezeen_Softshelter-by-Molo_2.jpg)
The walls are joined together by detachable magnetic panels and therefore require only a few people to assemble with minimal instructions and no tools.
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/dezeen_Softshelter-by-Molo_3.jpg)
Each flat-packed unit can arrive at the shelter ready for immediate set-up. See more stories on disaster relief »
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/dezeen_Softshelter-by-Molo_5.jpg)
Rooms can stand alone or be clustered together in order to create corridors, conjoined rooms, and common rooms.
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/dezeen_Softshelter-by-Molo_6.jpg)
The flexible nature of the walls allows for placement even in irregular spaces.
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/dezeen_Softshelter-by-Molo_10.jpg)
A simple 12-volt power cord can be strung through the walls to reach all adjoining units.
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/dezeen_Softshelter-by-Molo_13.jpg)
Other relief efforts for victims of natural disasters include Shigeru Ban's temporary housing project and a design for solar-powered emergency tents.
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/dezeen_Softshelter-by-Molo_9.jpg)
See more projects on paper enclosures here.
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/dezeen_Softshelter-by-Molo_12.jpg)
Here is some more information from the designers:
softshelter
a solution to homelessness caused by disaster
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/dezeen_Softshelter-by-Molo_4.jpg)
softshelter is a system for creating personal space within a larger shelter area in order to provide individuals and families with a sense of privacy and encourage community-building in the days following a disaster.
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/13.gif)
Quick start guide
softshelter is part of molo’s ongoing research-driven exploration of materials, fabrication techniques and space-making with a focus on enhancing common daily ritual and flexible use of space.
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/14.gif)
Deployment
We are currently preparing a study in which a member of the molo team will occupy softshelter; the flexible shelter will be set up in molo’s workshop space from now through September. We will share the experience through a series of stories as the project progresses. softshelter will soon be available as a fully deployable system. By occupying the shelter as it is being designed, we will be able to make discoveries that allow us to further refine a system that, hopefully, will one day be able to assist in disaster relief in an immediate and tangible way.
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/15.gif)
Setting up a room
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/16.gif)
Setting up a community of rooms
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/17.gif)
Room types
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/18.gif)
Connection types
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/19.gif)
Form making
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/20.gif)
Room conditions
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/21.gif)
Using the door
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/22.gif)
Home-making accessories
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/23.gif)
Community accessories
![Softshelter by Molo Softshelter by Molo](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/08/24.gif)
12V power