PORTABLE ARCHITECTURE ASPECTS IN THE DESIGN OF EMERGENCY SHELTERS FOR EVACUATION DURING THE ERUPTION OF MOUNT SEMERU

Abstract

Indonesia’s position along the Ring of Fire renders it highly prone to volcanic
eruptions, often causing significant displacement and damage to settlements. These
conditions highlight the need for effective emergency shelters. However, static
emergency shelter solutions, such as conventional tents, are often inadequate for the
dynamic evacuation contexts of volcanic disasters. These shelters are typically difficult
to transport, slow to deploy, and dependent on skilled labor, resulting in delayed
protection for evacuees. This study aims to develop design criteria for portable
emergency shelters by applying the principles of portable architecture—mobility,
compactibility, lightweight materials, and ease of assembly—to better support
evacuation mobility and post-disaster needs. Employing a qualitative descriptive
method, the research integrates contextual analysis of Semeru’s eruption characteristics
with theoretical frameworks of portable design. Data were collected through literature
review, design document analysis, and secondary disaster data, focusing on evacuation
dynamics, environmental conditions, and ergonomic requirements. The findings identify
three essential design aspects: rapid deployment, compactness, and transportability. The
proposed shelter design incorporates retractable and folding systems allowing rapid
assembly by non-expert users within five to ten minutes, compact packaging for efficient
storage, and lightweight construction suitable for motorcycle transport. This design
improves response speed and reduces logistical dependence during disaster evacuation.
The study concludes that integrating portable architectural strategies into emergency
shelter design enhances adaptability, responsiveness, and independence of affected
communities, providing not only physical protection but also supporting the continuity
of mobility and dignity during prolonged displacement.