LAMPEDUSA, SICILY, ITALY
ALU VITTA ITALIA
The ALU is a temporary housing structure designed to address critical challenges in diverse locations. ALU, short for aluminum and Adaptable Living Units, are prefabricated aluminum structures that offer unparalleled flexibility, adaptability, and durability, making it an ideal solution for temporary shelters. With its unique design inspired by other prefabricated structures and even the beloved Lego building blocks, the ALU revolutionizes the concept of modular housing.
The first example of the ALU is shown as the ALU VITTA ITALIA, where it addresses the growing migrant crisis on the small island of Lampedusa, Sicily. The island, known for its hospitality and crystal-blue beaches, receives thousands of migrants per month, as it lies closer to Tunisia than it does to mainland Italy. The name, coming from the words “Aluminium” and Italian for “Life”, conveys the idea of aluminum-based housing that supports and protects lives.
The robust aluminum framework and durable paneling ensure the safety and well-being of those seeking shelter, even in challenging environments. The interchangeable panels, crafted from aluminum, wood, or even carbon fiber, provide aesthetic appeal and cater to specific functional requirements, while facilitating rapid deployment, allowing for swift response and effective relief efforts. Moreover, the AluVitta addresses the urgent need for shelters for migrants arriving into Europe. By strategically locating these structures along migration routes, it provides a temporary haven that offers comfort, privacy, and a sense of dignity. The modular design allows for scalability, making it possible to create larger accommodation complexes to support larger groups of people.
PROJECT SONG
The ALU (Adaptable Living Units) instruction booklet is a comprehensive guide that accompanies the ALU temporary housing solution, tailored specifically for projects in Italy. Designed to provide a comfortable and functional living environment, ALU represents a unique housing solution that adapts to the distinctive needs and requirements of the Italian migration context. Migrants and volunteers alike can learn how to efficiently set up an ALU unit in an Italian project site. The instruction booklet provides clear guidelines on site preparation, foundation requirements, and assembly procedures. It takes into account the specific materials and ALU variations needed on the site.
The ALU temporary housing project holds great potential for being spread across Europe due to its versatile and adaptable nature. Its modular design allows for easy transportation and assembly in various locations, making it feasible to deploy the housing units in different countries throughout the continent. To facilitate such a widespread implementation, it is crucial for government agencies, institutions, and large European companies (Ikea for furniture, Lego for construction ideas, etc.) to sponsor and support the project. Their involvement can provide the necessary financial resources, expertise, and influence to ensure the project's success. By collaborating with government agencies, the project can receive regulatory support, streamlined processes, and potential subsidies to reduce costs. Institutions and large European companies can contribute through research partnerships, technology advancements, and market reach, accelerating the adoption and impact of ALU temporary housing across the region. Their sponsorship would not only facilitate the project's execution but also foster innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility in addressing the housing needs of diverse communities across Europe.
