Across the world there a millions of refugees that have fled their home to escape war, persecution or worse. Often crammed into overpacked tents, refugee camps are notorious breeding places for diseases, largely due to the horrendous living conditions.

In collaboration with IKEA the UNHCR have developed a modern refugee house that follows the guiding principles of the Swedish furniture manufacturer: functionality, easily transportable and simple to install.

The housing kit is set up in only a few hours and easy to transport thanks to the super lightweight plastic material. A special insulation protects inhabitants from the heat during the day and from the cold at night. Unlike usual tents the IKEA houses are durable over years, which will make a major difference considering that many children spend their entire childhood in refugee camps. With solar panels on the roof, the house even provides light and electricity for the basic needs, such as cooking and sewing but also for the children to do their homework. The first prototype will be tested in Ethiopia later this month, and sees IKEA trying to make living better for those most vulnerable.