A Study on Mega-Shelter Layout Planning Based on User Behavior

We explore the spatial layouts of mega-shelters and suggest better spatial planning strategies. A mega-shelter for refugees contains multiple functions, such as dormitory, dining, medical, kitchen, storage, and community areas. Post-disaster refugees often suffer from PTSD that affects their mental health and spatial cognitive ability. The spatial configuration of a mega-shelter can accelerate their recovery by providing an environment that not only satisfies the basic needs, but one that can improve their spatial cognitive ability and promote a sense of community in this new, albeit temporary, small society. Four mega-shelters in the U.S., Australia, and Japan were analyzed using space syntax methods, specifically axial line analysis and visibility graph analysis (VGA), as well as justified graph analysis. The comparative analysis shows that while specific spatial layouts are different, all shelters were designed from a manager’s perspective. The movements of the refugees were sometimes unnecessarily exposed to supervision and control, and community areas were often found in locations with low accessibility. By incorporating strategies such as siting community space in areas with high global integration values and adopting transition areas, mega-shelters can create an environment that can enhance the refugees’ will to recover and rebuild by promoting communications with neighbors and various community activities.

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