The Ikea Foundation has announced that it will provide 10,000 flat pack "Better Shelter" units for refugees.Â
Better Shelters (pictured) take four to eight hours to be assembled and have a three-year lifespan.
![](https://www.globalconstructionreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/846_shelter_2.jpg)
The 188 square foot, 1.75m high structures can accommodate up to five people and can be built without the need for tools.Â
The shelters have custom-designed plastic foam for thermal insulation and a solar panel that can generate energy for an interior lamp and mobile phone.
![](https://www.globalconstructionreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/shelter_3.jpg)
They aim to replace the use of tents in refugee camps and are designed to be secure, with a lockable door and openable windows.Â
Better Shelters cost around $1,150 each, twice a standard refugee tent, but Ikea says it is working to lower the price.Â
![](https://www.globalconstructionreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/846_shelter_4.jpg)
Johan Karlsson, head of business development at Better Shelter, told Mashable: "The solution is still more cost effective considering its longevity. We’re working hard to get it below $1,000, and we see good potential to achieve this within the next two years."Â
The lifespan of a typical refugee tent is around six months.
![](https://www.globalconstructionreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/846_shelter_5.jpg)
The shelter prototype has been tested and improved by 40 refugee families in Iraq and Ethiopia.Â
Images: Better Shelter