Casabrella

Temporary as they may be, shelters for millions of construction workers remain neglected, overcrowded, and unhygienic, reflecting the transient nature of their lives. Casabrella, a self-sustaining transit shelter inspired by the inverted umbrella, proposes a dignified and low-cost alternative. Built from site-derived waste such as cement bags filled with excavated soil, its circular earthbag walls resist earthquakes, provide thermal mass, and offer acoustic insulation. Corrugated iron roofing with high reflectivity (0.70) reduces heat gain, while high emissivity (0.75) releases stored heat, mitigating the urban heat effect. An aerodynamic roof cavity enhances air circulation, stack effect vents discharge trapped heat, and integrated pipes harvest rainwater. Lightweight and modular, the shelters are easy to transport and can be located in OSR-designated plots. After construction, Casabrella walls can support site gardens, while roofs remain as pavilions that preserve memories of the worker community. By reusing materials and aligning stakeholder interests, Casabrella creates sustainable and equitable housing.