ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Bas Timmer Launches Shelterbag for South Africa at Design Indaba

architecture-design · 2026-05-04

At the 25th edition of Design Indaba, fashion designer Bas Timmer presented the Sheltersuit, a wearable shelter for homeless individuals that transforms from a waterproof, windproof jacket into a sleeping bag. The project was inspired by the death of a friend's father from hypothermia. Sheltersuits are made from upcycled materials and produced in social workshops employing refugees and vulnerable communities. Timmer also launched the Shelterbag, a lighter version adapted for South Africa's climate, funded and distributed through sponsors and audience mobilization at the conference.

Key facts

  • Bas Timmer spoke at Design Indaba's 25th edition.
  • The Sheltersuit is a waterproof, windproof jacket that becomes a sleeping bag.
  • Timmer's inspiration came from a friend's father dying of hypothermia.
  • Sheltersuits are produced from upcycled materials in social workshops.
  • The workshops employ refugees and vulnerable communities.
  • The Shelterbag is a lighter version for South Africa.
  • The Shelterbag was launched at Design Indaba.
  • Funding and distribution of Shelterbags resulted from sponsor and audience support.

Entities

Artists

  • Bas Timmer

Institutions

  • Design Indaba

Locations

  • South Africa

Sources