Several years ago two avid outdoor enthusiasts were enjoying camping in the remote forests of Northern Ontario Canada. The annual event had been relatively uneventful for many years, as typical accommodation was a standard two-person pup tent. Unfortunately, one particular year the weather took a turn for the worse. Freezing rain, snow, sleet and hail pelted them for 10 long days. They were virtually confined to their small two-person pup tent for the entire duration.

It was during this time that John F. Matchung designed the Habitat concept, vowing never to be left cold, wet and miserable again in the wilderness. In the years that followed John took his concept and invented the Habitat as it is known today. 

The Prototype

The first Habitat shelter was originally designed using wooden two by fours and steel brackets. The entire tent was held together with nuts and bolts. The original cover was a sewn orange tarpaulin designed to loosely fit over the erected frame. Thus, the original Habitat was born and first known to friends and family as "The Pumpkin". The name stuck for several years until such time that the commercial business was formed. The Pumpkin was renamed "The Habitat" to provide a universally recognizable name for a superior product.

The Product

As others began to see the benefits of the Habitat prototypes, interest grew to such an extent that John was encouraged to start a commercial business. It was clear that the Habitat offered many unique advantages over standard pop up tents. It filled a unique void between smaller back packing tents and permanent cabins. John believed that the Habitat could fill a niche demand in the market. His goal was to design the most cost effective, highest quality portable product available on the market. He succeeded. John Matchung and his customers were never caught unprepared in Canada's remote wilderness again. They succeeded in enjoying the Habitat camping experience in all weather conditions.

Over the years, several iterations took place resulting in the current aluminum framed design with vinyl coated polyester cover.

The Habitat is built with the highest quality materials and finest workmanship. Design Shelter customers continually applaud the product for its comfort, durability and ease of assembly. In a very short period of time, the Habitat has proven to be a great success. Design Shelter customers are repeat customers. Sales by word of mouth endorsement are routine.

The Company Today

Design Shelter Inc. is now proudly owned by Mr. J. Brad Matchung, John's son, representing the second generation to manufacture and sell the Habitat family of shelters worldwide. Design Shelter Inc. is a wholly owned Canadian corporation located in Mississauga, Ontario Canada. Design Shelter's manufacturing facility is located in Mississauga, Ontario with sales and administration offices located in Mississauga, Ontario and Vancouver, British Columbia Canada. Design Shelter currently enjoys a healthy domestic market and exports to countries worldwide.