A high-end prefab technology company creates a shelter that doesn’t sacrifice digital connectivity
Modular and prefabricated shelters aim to focus on affordability, construction, material use, and adaptability. Companies like Mighty Buildings, Ark-Shelter, and numerous others have developed their own versions of the “ideal” prefab home. However, a “high-design prefab shelter technology company” called Jupe develops a reimagined solution that doesn’t sacrifice digital connections. Jupe is developed by Kasita founder and long-time modular housing specialist Jeff Wilson. He assembles a team of architects, engineers, and housing experts to create an urban prefab shelter.
From its exterior, the shelter’s geometric form, opaque surface, and exposed aluminum structural supports seem like something you’d find in a science fiction film or a shelter that could be deployed on a trip to Mars. However, its eye-catching aesthetic is no accident. The Jupe design team consists of former Tesla, AirBnB, and SpaceX team members familiar with “designing for future living.” Some may be familiar with the Jupe name, back in March 2020 when the coronavirus pandemic created a mass shortage of hospital and medical treatment spaces. Jupe developed a deployable pop-up recovery unit called “Jupe Health.” Using their easy to transport and assemble chassis foundation, this construction technology can be found in their latest urban pod venture.
For those interested in experiencing these shelters, they are currently offering pre-order units. Wilson shares in a press statement why these prefab shelters are of value. “Jupe is an out-of-this-city getaway inspired by out-of-this-world ideas. During these times when most of us are craving a true escape, Jupe provides an experience perfectly suited for social distance travel.”
He continues, “we turned to ideas that inspired and excited us […] “The desire to get out of the cities that we’ve seen over the past decade and the acceleration of that trend during the pandemic has drained short term stay inventory for those that want to experience nature. Further, the recent success of the IPOs in this space and the off-the-charts demand to ‘stay close’ make the timing for short term stay products like Jupe impeccable.”
In addition to its sci-fi inspired origins, top-notch design team, and “future-forward” approach, many may view Jupe as another high-end product fit for luxury-seeking influencers or “glamping enthusiasts.” Each prefab unit comes equipped with its own 200 Ah battery system, solar panel, WiFi router, controllable LED lighting, and a panel system complete with four electrical outlets and USB charging stations. While most who retreat to nature often try to get off the grid, Jupe allows travelers to bring the grid with them wherever they go.
“Jupe is an out-of-this-city getaway inspired by out-of-this-world ideas. During these times when most of us are craving a true escape, Jupe provides an experience perfectly suited for social distance travel.”
Jupe’s overall design, easy to deploy structure, and “first of its kind” adaptable chassis foundation offers exciting potential for temporary shelter configurations. According to the specs section of their website the company makes it a point to emphasize the unit’s “let go without letting go” methodology. While this prefabricated shelter may not be ideal for those looking to take a break from technology, it does spark the interests of those looking to travel comfortably without sacrificing connection to the digital world. Based in the US, the Jupe launch will be touring through off the grid locations across California and Nevada.
