Aimed at women escaping domestic violence (and their child under the age of two), this emergency shelter is designed as a protective shell made of cork and timber. Chosen for their insulating, warm and impact-absorbing qualities, these materials create a sense of comfort and security—particularly valuable for a child learning to crawl or walk. Cork also allows residents to personalize their walls simply by pinning objects directly onto the surface, enabling them to reclaim this space as their own. Bespoke stainless steel accents  add moments of refinement, affirming that even temporary shelter deserves thoughtful design.

While the shell provides protection, it never isolates the residents from their surroundings. One corner of the shelter opens entirely through a secure sliding system, allowing each resident to decide whether to keep the space private or open it to her neighbors. This flexibility encourages spontaneous encounters—including between young children—without ever imposing unwanted social interaction.

At floor level, play and healing come together. Hidden beneath the floor are soft play modules that can be taken out whenever desired, transforming the space into a small play area for movement and exploration. Integrated almost invisibly into everyday life, they offer a discreet way of restoring joy and playfulness within a place designed above all for recovery.