Swiss designer Reto Togni has developed a cling-film-like temporary window to make damaged houses in conflict zones habitable.
Togni worked with his friend, humanitarian worker Wendelin Federer, to develop Instant Windows, which is going on display at Milan design week as part of the Swiss arts council Pro Helvetia's Design Switzerland exhibition.
Reto Togni and Wendelin Federer have created temporary window covers called Instant Windows
Instant Windows are unrolled from a tube in the manner of cling film. They are cheap to produce and easy to install, and offer a level of insulation similar to a single-pane glass window.
The insulation is created through the layering of two sheets of plastic, with an air pocket maintained by latches that cross the sheeting like shutters. The latches fold flat for storage in the roll, but lock open at a 90-degree angle during installation to separate the two layers of plastic. A zip-lock mechanism fixes the latches into place.
Adhesive tape attaches the window to an empty frame and seals the air pocket. The only other tool required for installation is a pair of scissors ? users simply snip off excess material from the roll as required.
The windows are formed of two layers of plastic with an air pocket between
Togni and Federer believe in some cases the product could be the difference between people being able to stay in their homes or having to leave and seek refuge elsewhere.
"Housing loses are an important driver of the mass migrati...