In the news: the re-Growth Pod from 1:1 Architects in Australia. According to their website, it's:
A completely self contained concrete service pod.
It is a permanent and cost effective housing unit which can assist in the rebuilding of the fire devastated town-ships of Victoria.
The robust pre-fabricated concrete structure has been designed to be built upon, but in the short term acts as a habitable starting point for the building of a new home. The units can be prefabricated, delivered and connected to services rapidly allowing families to begin the process of re-building without displacement from their communities.
Watch the assembly animation video (0:20).
The prototype will be built by Ecotec Build Solutions. Track their progress via the re-Growth Pod blog.
Hat tips: Arch Daily on March 4, 2009 and Treehugger on March 6, 2009.