The term fail-safe is used to describe a system which has been structured such that it cannot fail to accomplish its assigned mission regardless of environmental factors. Architecturally, the assigned mission for new housing for New Orleans is the sustaining of its occupants during and after adversary. Fail-safe is a new type of housing for New Orleans that in its default position is an extroverted terraced riverside community, a lively year round open market at its base. In its fail-safe mode, the housing protects its occupants from harm. Lofted off the ground, first dwelling units begin only at the 100-year flood line. Amenities such as essential medicines, fresh water, canned foods, sanitary facilities, quick set-up insulated tents with sleeping bags and solar batteries are stored on-site in the event of an emergency. Fail-safe housing is designed to autonomously support its occupants for 30 days off the grid until the civil infrastructure becomes stabilized. Fail-safe housing serves as the ultimate shelter.