How?
We are taking a multidisciplinary approach to transforming retired sails maximizing their size and durability.
It started with me and Fabian Kremkus, a Principal Architect at CO Architects in LA. He responded to a cold email during the pandemic. I suggested that these materials would make perfect shelters that would allow everyone to meet social distancing requirements. Thousands of high end dead sails are tucked in storage units all over the California coast.
The inherent durability and unique characteristics of the sail material have proven to be an valuable resource for crafting shade and shelter structures, transcending their original purpose. This transformative process not only breathes new life into the sails but also showcases the untapped potential within the second-use economy. Every use tells a tale of sustainability and resilience, as we repurpose elegance into practicality, symbolizing the core of our cause at Sail to Shelter.
Fabian took the bait and we got to work in a design brief and the firm agreed to donate a few hours for a design charrette and we have been evolving designs ever since. In 2022 ARUP Engineering joined the group with structural support out of their LA office. We have an allstar group of talented people with the shared passion to find meaningful second uses for this incredible material.
The material is inspiring to architects. It opens a world of possibility. Access to material that was designs to drag a ship across the ocean has some very special properties that allow for very special designs.
Over the years we have also established some very special relationships with the best manufacturers in the world, and with some of the most elite sailing yacht owners and organizations. Together, we are identifying inventory around the world.
The goal is to move the sails the least amount required for them to get their true second wind.
We work with communities in need, and with organizations serving communities in need. We aim to implement proven designs that address very specific situational needs, accounting for sun, wind, rain, ground conditions and materials available locally.
We have worked with World Central Kitchen, International Rescue Committee and Solidarity Engineering. We are currently working with a number of organizations on Maui to help restore a sense of community.
SAIL TO SHELTER
The next best thing you can do with your sails.
Sail to Shelter is a non-profit, tax-exempt charitable organization (tax identification number 88-2826788) under Section 501 (c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law. © 2022 Sail to Shelter