The Prototype 

Ecosystems Technologies’ Nest House design utilises homegrown timber and offsite manufacturing techniques. Built as a completed module, it is delivered to site fully furnished using a “plug and play” system, meaning little on-site work is required. This form of modular construction offers a quick and efficient method of housing delivery, minimising on-site disruption. 

Utilising homegrown timber in the Nest House has delivered significant value, both socially and environmentally. The structural components were manufactured from a combination of mass timber products and Scottish-grown cladding was installed to the external facades, all utilising local supply chains and a local workforce, which helps support local jobs and the UK economy. 

Environmentally, the timber is sourced from responsibly managed and sustainable local forests, which remove carbon from the atmosphere, resulting in a building which is net zero carbon.  

In providing accommodation for vulnerable and homeless people, this approach delivers a rapid and effective housing solution when compared to traditional construction methods. 

To manufacture the mass timber components for the prototype, Ecosystems used the UK’s only vacuum press, found in BE-ST’s Innovation Factory alongside our other state of the art wood processing equipment. BE-ST have also supported the project by spreading the message of this positive work on our communication channels and have showcased the prototype at the BE-ST Campus since early 2024. 

The Villages 

The Nest House is a demonstrator for the new Social Bite Village proposed for South Lanarkshire and the Recovery Village in Dundee, both planned for delivery in early 2025 to support people struggling with homelessness and addiction.  

The Dundee Village will consist of fifteen houses to create a communal hub and community. The village will encourage socialisation and facilitate skills training, recovery services and personalised support to help residents.  

The prototype was unveiled in St Andrews Square, Edinburgh in November 2023 as part of Social Bite’s Festival of Kindness, was subsequently presented at Gleneagles Hotel and has been showcased at BE-ST since early 2024. 

This is not the first Social Bite Village, with Social Bite having delivered eleven houses in Edinburgh in partnership with the team behind Ecosystems and Cyrenians in 2018. The Village initiative combined an innovative housing model with a supported community environment. 

Social Bite are currently raising funds to support the delivery of their two next villages in Scotland. You can find out more and donate at the link here.