Zishen Liu

Folding Jugaad
2026

The project embraces the Hindi concept of Jugaad—an improvised, resource-efficient response to everyday constraints—proposing an adaptive street furniture system for informal vendors in India. It prioritizes mobility, flexibility, and ease of assembly, with a folding mechanism inspired by a ladder and a suitcase, enabling compact storage and transformation into either an intimate shelter or an open canopy. Constructed from low-cost, locally accessible and repurposed materials, it advances circular design and material efficiency. Folding Jugaad translates informal street intelligence into a portable spatial system that empowers vendors and negotiates between everyday necessity and public life.

1. Street view
2. Adaptive modes
3. Jugaad Innovation
4. Street sleeping on Charpai in India
5. Detail section
6. Top view and front view
7. Side views

Innovative Furniture 04 | Design for Street Vendors International Competition - Winners

© Nathaniel Loretz and Zishen Liu

The project will be built by Ketham‘s Atelier & shared to community by Thinking Hand NGO

@kethamsatelier