ulmer nest is a solar-powered shelter to protect homeless people in winter

‘ulmer nest’ is an architecture project with a social conscience. developed by an interdisciplinary team of six, the timber pod serves as an emergency shelter to protect homeless people from bitterly cold winter weather. two prototypes have already been installed in the german city of ulm.

images courtesy of ulmer nest

the ulmer nest is for those who, for whatever reason, cannot stay in homeless accommodation. not meant as a replacement to regular homeless shelters, the nest is described as a ‘last resort’. rather than spending a night in the freezing cold sleeping on a park bench or on the street, the pod provides a means of protection against the elements.

when developing the prototype, the team carried out thorough research to gain better insight into the people who would use the shelter. they found that there are many reasons people can’t stay in dedicated homeless shelters. these reasons ranged from people not wanting to be separated from their dog to the fear of crime and violence. following this, the team resolved to create a one-person sleeping pod.

the final nest prototype is made using solid timber for the body and powder-coated metal for the parts that require intensive cleaning. wood was selected as the main material for its durability and insulation properties as well as its economical and ecological aspects. once the pod is assembled, the wood is coated with a stain to protect it from the weather.

the design is fitted out with all the necessary tech, including a heat exchanger to supply fresh air, GPS sensors, smoke alarms, and a motion detection system. the team also considered the safety and cleanliness of the pod. the design is protected against fire and includes a secure locking system.

ulmer nest was first rolled out in the winter of 2020, but the team hopes it can provide a welcome respite in locations nationwide. the concept was developed by patrick kaczmarek, florian geiselhart, falko pross, manuel schall, dirk bayer, and kathrin uhlig.