In Switzerland temporary buildings for housing – essentially a permanent use – are found primarily in the asylum system. Something intended as a short-term solution in an emergency often becomes permanent. Historically, accommodation of this kind dates back to the Second World War. Tens of thousands of foreign soldiers were interned in barracks that later served as accommodation for migrant workers. Two examples show the different approaches being taken today. Viererfeld temporary accommodation in Bern was erected in 2022 in the space of only three months. For three years the 250 containers provided accommodation for 2300 refugees – functional but devoid of architectural quality. In contrast, the Centre d’hébergement collectif de Rigot in Geneva is a modular timber building with social aims that offers a private sphere. Both projects make clear that it is usually only the location of such facilities that is temporary. Creating housing with dignity for refugees remains a permanent challenge in both social and planning terms.