Design and Needs Analysis of Off-Grid Portable Mini-Houses After Earthquake

Abstract

This study examines the design criteria of off-grid portable tiny houses, which aim to provide rapid, sustainable, and long-term solutions for shelter, energy, and water needs that arise after earthquakes. In current disaster management practices, temporary housing solutions such as tents and containers limit post-disaster quality of life due to inadequate insulation, short lifespan, high costs, and dependence on infrastructure. The study reviews the concept of disasters, disaster management processes, and housing problems, and evaluates the technical components of off-grid systems, including solar energy, wind turbines, hybrid energy solutions, water supply, greywater management, toilet systems, and heating-cooling technologies. Through a survey, user expectations were identified, and findings indicate that these systems can serve as a significant alternative in the post-disaster period. In conclusion, the study proposes a sustainable, mobile, and infrastructure-independent housing model that can be implemented in Turkey’s earthquake-prone regions.