Houses in Motion: The Genesis, History and Development of the Portable Building

Book by Kronenburg, Robert H.

House in Motion, Second Edition explores the genre of portable, transportable, demountable and temporary architecture. Moving buildings are among the earliest artifacts created by man, and yet they have a persisting relevance that enables a Bedouin tent to exist in the same world as a 90,000-ton aircraft carrier.

In this revised edition of his definitive study, Robert Kronenbourg examines the development of the moveable building from prehistory to the present day, including a entirely new chapter on the influence that new technologies have on the subject. From familiar vernacular models such as the tent, mobile home and houseboat, to developments in military and construction engineering, all aspects of portable architecture are considered.

Kronenbourg makes comparisons between current, commercially available products and the work of innovative designers. He explores the philosophical and technological issues raised by contemporary, experimental and futuristic prototypes, and examines the suitability to purpose of portable building solutions in shelter after disaster situations.

A greater undestanding of the nature of transitory architecture could result in a new, ecologically aware design strategy which prioritises buildings that 'tread lightly on the earth' and still convey the sense of identity and community necessary for an established responsible society. This book offers readers a unique insight into this increasingly important field of design.