Adjustable XBO Mobile Unit Redefines the Mobile Home

Norwegian architects, <a href="http://www.70n.no/" target="_blank">70 N Arkitektur AS</a>, have created the next step in mobile homes. Dubbed the 'XBO Mobile Unit', the portable home is the size of a <a href="http://inhabitat.com/local-market-made-from-22-salvaged-shipping-containers-opens-in-brooklyn/" target="_blank">shipping container</a> and can be easily transported to almost any location. The unit was created to emphasize active living and to bring a modern and sustainable <a href="http://inhabitat.com/mobile-eco-trailer-concept-advocates-change-for-chicago/" target="_blank">mobile dwelling</a> into the great outdoors.

XBO Mobile was initially conceived as part of the innovative European exhibition called PARASITE, a forward thinking architecture show standing for “Prototypes for Amphibious, Readymade, Advanced, Small-scale, Individual, Temporary, Ecological houses.”

The unit combines the characteristics of a <a href="http://inhabitat.com/molos-softshelters-add-the-comfort-of-home-to-disaster-relief/" target="_blank">temporary shelter</a> with a <a href="http://inhabitat.com/sf-artist-jay-nelson-hacks-vehicles-into-incredible-faceted-mobile-homes/" target="_blank">mobile shelter</a>- it can be transported and set up anywhere, but is also self-sustaining in that it can be set up as an independent shelter without external infrastructure.

The XBO is unique in that it has the option of bringing the outdoors in. Made from <a href="http://inhabitat.com/slides-perforated-skin-slides-in-and-out-to-control-solar-gain/" target="_blank">two sliding parts</a>, the adjoining ends can be pulled apart to reveal a 22 foot garden area with living quarters on flanked on each side. The unit can remain open, so plant life can be brought in and set up like a typical terrace.

The interior is extremely simple, yet sleek, and leaves a somewhat luxurious impression (although it is made from inexpensive materials). Polished birch veneer walls and linoleum flooring give a clean look, while large glass windows allow residents to enjoy the views of wherever they tote the structure. Outside, a ladder leads to a <a href="http://inhabitat.com/petit-bain-green-roofed-floating-building-sets-sail-on-the-seine-in-paris/" target="_blank">rooftop terrace</a> for additional views.

Combining the outside with the inside, the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/the-periscope-project-hip-shipping-container-art-space-redefines-architecture-in-san-diego/" target="_blank">unit </a>features an interior kitchenette, living room, bathroom and bedroom/office that are set around the adjustable garden space. The <a href="http://inhabitat.com/modern-home-fuses-traditional-thai-architecture-with-green-building/" target="_blank">garden space</a> has endless possibilities- plant life, outdoor dining, and even a sauna can be added.

Luxurious and simple, the unit folds back up into a<a href="http://inhabitat.com/amazing-sf-victorian-renovation-marries-the-old-with-green-modern/" target="_blank"> storage container</a> to be brought to its next picturesque destination.