Shade-X (തണൽ)

Inspiration

The inspiration for Shade-X (തണൽ) began during our undergraduate architecture days, when my friend and I frequently travelled along NH 66. Watching construction workers live inside thin aluminium-sheet shelters during extreme heat was heartbreaking. One day we stepped inside one of these shelters, and the suffocating temperature shocked us. The people who build our cities were living in conditions unfit for human dignity. Their struggle stayed with us, and it became clear that we had a responsibility to respond. This emotional moment sparked the first idea that eventually grew into Shade-X and later shaped my dissertation and future academic journey.

What it does

Shade-X provides a humane, thermally comfortable, modular shelter for construction workers suffering in unbearable heat. It replaces the traditional heat-trapping tin-sheet huts with a scientifically designed structure using PUF thermal panels, passive ventilation strategies, and a lightweight steel frame. The shelter dramatically reduces indoor temperature, allowing workers to rest, sleep and live in safety and dignity. Shade-X is not just a shelter—it is a promise of comfort for those who build our world.

How we built it

We began by speaking with NH 66 workers in Valanchery, Kuttippuram, and Ponnani, listening to their real stories of heat exhaustion and sleepless nights. Their experiences guided our research into passive cooling, thermal resistance, and human comfort models. Using DesignBuilder and EnergyPlus, we simulated various materials, proving how PUF panels stabilise indoor temperatures compared to tin sheets. From here, we designed a foldable modular steel skeleton, integrated double-fly canvas, and thermally resistant panels. Each stage combined empathy, scientific analysis, and architectural design, eventually forming the Shade-X prototype.

Challenges we ran into

The path was never easy. Access to worker camps was limited, funding for material testing was scarce, and balancing field research with university work was demanding. We also faced the challenge of demonstrating to stakeholders that worker comfort directly affects productivity and well-being. Despite every setback, the project only grew stronger. Each challenge shaped our determination to create a solution worthy of the people who inspired it.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Shade-X has grown far beyond what we first imagined beside NH 66. We are proud that our project was selected as a winner of YIP 6.0 by the Government of Kerala, a recognition that proves its relevance and social impact. We were also honoured to be ScaleUp 2025 Project Expo Winners, validating the technical strength and innovation of our prototype. Additionally, Shade-X was shortlisted for the national-level AICTE YUKTI innovation competition, standing among inspiring ideas from across India. More than awards, our greatest accomplishment is knowing that workers felt noticed, heard, and valued through this project.

What we learned

This journey taught us that architecture carries a deeper responsibility—to protect lives and uplift dignity. We learned how climate, materials, and human physiology interact; how simulations can guide meaningful design; and how emotional motivation can lead to scientific innovation. Listening to workers showed us that humane design is not optional—it is essential. Above all, we discovered the power of empathy in creating real-world impact.

What's next for Shade-X (തണൽ)

Shade-X has become the heart of my dissertation and the foundation of my future academic path. As I move into my master’s studies, I aim to refine this shelter system further, exploring new materials, advanced simulations, and scalable production. The goal is to collaborate with government bodies, NGOs, and private contractors to bring Shade-X to construction sites across Kerala and beyond. We also envision expanding it as an emergency shelter model for disaster relief and humanitarian support. Shade-X will continue to grow—because no worker should ever suffer inside the place meant to give them comfort.

Built With

• 3d-modeling
• architectural-drafting
• ashrae-cbe
• autocad
• climate-responsive-design
• designbuilder
• double-fly-canvas
• energyplus
• material-thermal-testing
• passive-ventilation-design
• pmv-ppd-models
• puf-panels
• simulation-rendering
• sketchup
• steel-skeleton-modular-construction
• thermal-comfort-analysis