Turtlepods

The Turtlepod Project developed in response to the need expressed by Walk With Me research participants seeking a warm, dry, safe shelter for the unhoused community. Turtlepods provide an alternative to tents and shopping carts—enabling protection from the elements for people and their possessions.

The project is still in the prototype phase. This first prototype, released February 2022, was designed and built by Werner Karsten with exterior painting/design by Shawn Decaire.

Darcy Honey and Shawn Decaire also served on the Design Team.

The Pod is mobile and lockable. It is largely constructed with marine-grade plywood, and includes fire retardant insulation, ventilation, and emergency exit options. We develop new processes for production, and we are exploring possibilities for producing a series of Pods in Comox Valley, Campbell River and beyond.

Check out some news coverage on our Turtlepod project: