When constructing a shelter, on average how many square meters does each person require?

• A. 3.5-4.5 square meters
• B. 2.0-3.0 square meters
• C. 5.0-6.0 square meters
• D. 6.5-7.5 square meters

Answer: (A)

Space planning for a shelter focuses on giving each person enough floor area to sleep, move around, and access essentials without excessive crowding. The typical guideline used in humanitarian shelter design is about 3.5 to 4.5 square meters per person. This range provides space for a sleeping area and personal belongings while leaving a modest circulation zone and room for exits, which helps maintain safety, privacy, and ventilation. Crowding below this range increases risks of disease transmission, heat stress, and accidents, while allocating much more space per person can waste precious land and materials. Therefore, 3.5–4.5 square meters per person is the best guidance.