In response to a commission from the government at the end of the War, Jean Prouvé designed structures for the temporary accommodation of the War homeless in Lorraine and Franche-Comté. Perfecting the already patented axial portal frame system, the constructer responded to the urgency of the situation with a rapid, economical and adaptable solution. The 36m2 surface area imposed by the Ministry of Reconstruction – later increased to 54m2 – was divided into three rooms that were immediately habitable on the day of erection. This meant that this rural community did not have to move away while their homes were being rebuilt.
Designed to be erected rapidly and potentially demounted and moved as required, these “architectural feats” were made of lightweight prefabricated elements in metal and wood.
