NEST – Exploring the Future of Buildings
NEST accelerates the process of innovation in the building sector. In this modular research and innovation building of Empa and Eawag, new technologies, materials and systems are tested, researched, honed and validated in realistic conditions. The close cooperation with partners from research, industry and the public sector helps launch innovative building and energy technologies on the market faster.
Start of work on the HiLo construction site
Preparatory work for the HiLo unit construction site started on 27 June 2019. The two-storey building with the eye-catching roof will impressively demonstrate the possibilities of lightweight construction.
NEST receives Building Award 2019
This year's Building Award in the "Research and Development" category goes to NEST. The award honors remarkable and innovative engineering achievements in construction.
Opening of the NEST unit DFAB HOUSE
DFAB HOUSE has officially opened on 27 february 2019. It is the world's first inhabited "house" that was not only digitally planned, but also – with the help of robots and 3D printers – built largely digitally.
NEST earns energy award "Watt d'Or"
On 10 January 2019, the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) awarded NEST the renowned Swiss "Watt d'Or" energy prize. In its decision, the jury put a particular emphasis on the "Solar Fitness & Wellness" unit.
Building with waste and recycled material
On 8 February 2018, the Urban Mining & Recycling unit opened its doors. It is a residential module out of materials that can be fully reused, repurposed, recycled, or composted after deconstruction.
Our new roommate, the drone
As permanent residents, flying robots will soon make building maintenance at NEST easier. The autonomous drones are part of the new "NEST Aerial Robotics Hub" of Empa and Imperial College London.
HiLo roof prototype passes field test
Researchers from ETH Zurich have built a prototype of the ultra-thin, curved concrete roof for the NEST unit HiLo using innovative digital design and fabrication methods.
The Solace unit starts operation
The Solace unit, driven by EPFL and opened on September 24, 2018, shows how maximum energy generation on the facade can work while at the same time providing optimum comfort inside.
NEST in the words of the Empa Deputy CEO
At the eco2friendly-DAY18 Peter Richner, Empa Deputy CEO, presented how research, industry and the public sector are paving the way for the future of the construction and energy sector (in German).
