The Future is Now

Australian architect Sean Godsell's FutureShack converts a typical shipping container into a mobile shelter for the homeless or refugees.

An entry into the Architecture For Humanity competition on relief housing, each solar-powered unit is fully self-contained. Its stackable shell makes for efficient shipping, and within 24 hours a FutureShack can be ready for occupancy.

Sleeker than a New York City studio apartment (and possibly larger), Gothamist loves that although the pared-down finishes and minimal fittings are cost-effective, this crisis housing prototype is also incredibly handsome.

FutureShack is on display in the Arthur Ross Terrace and Garden at the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum through October 10. This is the first viewing of FutureShack outside Australia.

The Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum is located at 2 East 91st Street at Fifth Avenue (212-849-8420).