A study examines the use of paper-based materials for designing temporary emergency shelters for forcibly displaced persons due to natural disasters and conflicts. The research features the development of five full-scale prototypes as part of the TECH (Transportable Emergency Cardboard House) project. It includes material testing, thermal simulations, and prototyping to assess the structural, thermal, and environmental performance of various paper elements, such as corrugated cardboard, honeycomb panels, and paper tubes, across different architectural and climatic contexts. Each prototype was evaluated for durability, thermal resistance, and ease of assembly. Results indicate that paper-based materials can fulfill the essential requirements of emergency architecture while being environmentally friendly, easy to transport, and cost-effective. The findings suggest that cellulose-based components are viable sustainable alternatives to traditional relief shelters. The study concludes with design guidelines aimed at the future development of durable, low-impact housing units that can adapt to various climate zones and emergency situations.