Expert NGO partner for vernacular design, low-carbon construction and seismic validation

Smart Shelter Foundation (SSF) is an independent Dutch registered NGO with 20 years of research and expertise in resilient low-carbon natural-material construction systems based on vernacular knowledge and climate-adaptive design.

Led by Dr. Martijn Schildkamp (MSc Architecture, PhD Engineering, 3× Horizon Europe MSCA Seal of Excellence), SSF bridges traditional construction knowledge and contemporary engineering research to develop affordable, resilient and environmentally responsible building solutions.

SSF works across Europe, the Middle East and Asia, operating at the intersection of multi-hazard resilience, climate adaptation, circular construction, affordability, social inclusion, and cultural identity — central themes of the New European Bauhaus.

CORE EXPERTISE

• Seismic & structural safety of traditional vernacular construction (earth/stone)

• Circular soil upcycling (stabilized earth blocks)

• Climate adaptation & passive thermal design

• Environmental assessment & Life Cycle Assessments (LCA)

• Code development & regulatory frameworks

• Knowledge transfer, awareness, and socio-educational workshops

CONSORTIUM ROLES OFFERED

SSF seeks participation in Horizon Europe and New European Bauhaus consortia (2026 open and 2027 forthcoming) as a research, technical development, demonstration, dissemination and sustainability assessment partner.

SSF can join early-stage concept development, help shape proposals, and also strengthen an existing consortium that is looking for additional expertise.