Energy company Vattenfall, in collaboration with design studio Superuse, has transformed an old wind turbine nacelle into a fully functional tiny house. This innovative project, unveiled at the Dutch Design Week, showcases a pioneering approach to sustainable living and circular economy principles.
The nacelle, the central housing of a wind turbine, was carefully dismantled from a turbine that had served its purpose in Austria for two decades. Measuring four meters wide, ten meters long, and three meters high, this once-industrial component has been meticulously converted into a cozy abode complete with a kitchen, bathroom, and living area. Moreover, the tiny house has smart features such as a heat pump, solar panels, and a solar water heater, underscoring its commitment to energy efficiency.
Second life
As wind turbines reach the end of their operational lifespan, the challenge of their disposal becomes increasingly pressing. While many components can be recycled, the process is energy-intensive and often involves the loss of valuable materials. Vattenfall’s tiny house project offers a more sustainable alternative, proving that it’s possible to give these structures a second life without compromising on comfort or style.
“We are committed to finding innovative ways to reuse materials from retired turbines,” said Thomas Hjort, Director of Innovation at Vattenfall. “By minimizing the need for new raw materials and reducing energy consumption, we can extend the lifespan of these valuable resources.”
Design challenges
Design studio Superuse and construction company Blade–Made faced the challenge of working within the confined space of the nacelle while adhering to building regulations. The result is a compact yet comfortable home that sets a new standard for sustainable living.
Jos de Krieger, partner at Superuse and Blade–Made, emphasized the scalability of this concept. “Thousands of similar turbines are awaiting decommissioning worldwide. This project demonstrates immense potential for repurposing these structures and creating sustainable communities.”
Interior design
The interior of the tiny house has been furnished by Reliving, a platform for buying and selling second-hand and vintage furniture. By using sustainable and recycled materials, Reliving has created a harmonious living space that complements the unique architecture of the wind turbine nacelle. This collaboration between Vattenfall and Reliving highlights the importance of circularity in both the construction and interior design sectors.
A vision for the future
The tiny house is just one of several innovative concepts presented by Vattenfall at the Dutch Design Week. Other projects include plans for floating islands made from turbine blades and artistic installations that visualize the data generated by wind turbines. These initiatives showcase Vattenfall’s commitment to a more sustainable future and inspire others to embrace circular economy principles.
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