Homelessness is an issue that's not going away anytime soon, but Singapore-based non-profit Billion Bricks has created a reversible tent that it says could offer a safe shelter for those in dire straits. Billed as being quick and easy to erect, it's designed to keep its occupants cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Though catered to the homeless, you can also order one for yourself, if so inclined.
The WeatherHyde, which Billion Bricks claims is the world's first reversible all-season family tent, measures 1.5 x 1.8 m (4.9 x 5.9 ft) and its maximum height is 1.6 m (5.2 ft). It doesn't need anchoring and can be erected in less than 15 minutes without tools. Total weight is a hefty 12 kg (26 lb).
The idea behind the reversible cover is that you'd have the shiny surface on the inside during winter to reflect body heat, while in summer you'd turn it inside out to reflect the sun. If it's really hot, the tent's door panels can also be removed and the sides can be propped up with poles too.
Billion Bricks says the WeatherHyde's reversible triple-layer cover is adequate to provide a "comfortable" indoor temperature in weather reaching 0 °C (32 °F). It's also waterproof and has enough room for a maximum of two adults and three kids.
Billion Bricks aims to provide homeless people with its tents by raising money with a Kickstarter campaign. Assuming all goes to plan, spending $300 SGD (US$215) should hopefully result in a family in India receiving a tent.
You can also buy two tents for $650 SGD ($465): one for yourself, another for a homeless person you know. Shipping is to North America and Singapore only, and it doesn't come with the frame (to reduce shipping costs), so you'd have to purchase your own locally.
We asked Billion Bricks how exactly it will get the tents in the hands of those that need them most, and a representative told us that it's working with Non-Governmental Organizations in India. The firm also says it has tested its tent with 15 families in New Delhi over a six-month period with success.
The video below offers some more details on the WeatherHyde.
Sources: WeatherHyde, Kickstarter
