GreenHouse

This space design and attached booklet intend to illustrate the design guidelines Sheryl Bishop and Sandra Häuplik Meusburger highlighted in their book Space Habitats and Habitability Designing for Isolated Confined Extreme Environments on Earth and in Space, 2021. The social psychologist and space architect collaborated to define and promote habitability concepts to design «living spaces» instead of «surviving places».

The aim is for individuals to thrive in a medium to long-term environment that is to be their home in a compact settlement. It may be shared between functions, people and away from one’s native region. The design recommendations are showcased and detailed through the redesign process of the communal space onboard an icebreaker.

In its center is a 9 m² ‘greenhouse’ promoting greenery to address well-being and function at individual and collective levels. It is suited for personality and cultural diversity. Growing plants provide fresh food, a relaxing view, and occasions to socialize or retreat. The layout is flexible and includes storage to foster space appropriation and prevent clutter.

Space research is a resource to enhance habitats on Earth, even transport for long journeys by bus, train, or boat.