plmu - parking lot mini unit
2024
California College of the Arts
The Parking Lot Mini Unit (PLMU) is a creative solution for migrant farm workers, designed to offer them comfortable and convenient housing wherever their work takes them.
When’s the last time you had a strawberry? Or a salad? Odds are they were grown and harvested by a migrant farm worker here in California. Migrant farm workers, especially from Mexico and Latin American countries, grow more than ¾ of the produce in America. The nature of this work means that labor is needed in different parts of the country depending on harvest times and market needs.
The Parking Lot Mini Unit (PLMU) is a creative solution for Mexican farm workers, designed to offer them comfortable and convenient housing wherever their work takes them.
The main goal of the PLMU project is to address the housing challenges faced by farm laborers. These units are compact yet cozy, fitting into standard parking spots and offering a sense of stability to workers who often move from farm to farm.
One of the key advantages of the PLMU is its portability. These units can be easily stacked and transported on semi-trailers, allowing for quick relocation based on seasonal work demands. This not only provides economic opportunities but also reduces the stress of finding suitable housing in different locations.
Beyond practicality, the PLMU represents a commitment to fairness and respect for all workers. By offering safe and dignified living spaces, we aim to improve the lives of farm workers and recognize their vital role in our society. Through collaboration with local communities and advocacy groups, we strive to create a more inclusive and compassionate society where everyone has access to decent housing.