Housing low-income groups, who cannot afford even the most minimal shelter, remains a dominant issue in most developing countries. However, all the solutions advanced so far depend on large investments, either by the Government or by the individuals concerned, which neither of them can afford. This thesis examines squatter settlements in Aorangi, Karachi (Pakistan) and identifies issues related to housing and the policies currently being implemented.

The results of that investigation indicate that housing for the low-income, given the economy and housing policies in most developing countries, can most effectively be realized by encouraging self-help methods, However before self-help methods. can be realized construction techniques. have to be simplified. This thesis proposes an alternate construction method that promises to simplify some of the building tasks in the construction of low-rise dwellings, and hopes to reduce the overall material costs in construction. This method relies on using fabrics as formwork in construction. This work is used in making walls, beams, and domes. A cost comparison is made with the current construction techniques in the country and the proposed building strategy is found to be highly competitive.