Couched Constructions: Mobile Refuge

In naming a project it always seems difficult to pick the right combination of words even though you know what you're trying to say. This was true in the process of naming Mobile Refuge. We knew we wanted to refer to the piece's ability to be moved and the fact it was acting as a shelter.  We intend for the piece to be used either in a time of disaster as a place for displaced people to sleep or as something homeless shelters can distribute to provide a place to sleep. We really feel Mobile Refuge hits the nail on the head, so to speak, in capturing our intended use(s) for the piece and we're very excited about it!  I've also included the project description below.

Mobile piece
This installation was approached from the mindset of reuse and regeneration. How can a discarded couch provide an essential shelter need for homeless persons and displaced people through natural and
man made disasters? The sturdy materials found inside a couch make a place for living in homes; can it also be a place for living on the streets? Can it be mass produced and stacked and released for emergency assistance? What modifications can make a couch into a strong, weather- resistant, comfortable space for a person?

Upon removing the outer layers of material, we discovered a highly reinforced frame built to survive much longer than the fabric cover. The frame elements were rearranged to create a more concise unit, serving a similar purpose to the original furniture. However, it is adjustable to each use: seat, covered bed, and movable storage unit. A cover protects the owner and his or her stored possessions from the elements. Using materials from two couches with new fasteners and added wheels, the once-stationary couch becomes a mobile, multi-functional unit. This unit can either be used by a single owner on a day-to-day basis as a home or can be distributed in times of disaster as a temporary shelter.

Stationary piece
This was derived form the sleeper portion of the sleeper sofa. The sturdy steel frame will be attached to a wall. It will serve as a bench during the day and transform into a canopy for someone to sleep beneath during the night.  The users of this piece could/would be different on a daily basis. The other mobile design piece could be 'parked' beneath this second stationary piece to give a person more warmth or protection on a cold or rainy night. Also several of these stationary pieces could be placed around the city to benefit everyone.