“Inside Out” Plug and Play System

The concept, called “Inside Out,” focuses on moving building systems to the exterior,
integrating multiple functions into modules (like insulation, heating, and energy generation in the façade). Instead of one large renovation, the process is broken into separate “building blocks” (modules) that can be combined depending on the project’s ambition. These modules evolved from an initial successful renovation project and were refined over time into a flexible system.

BUSINESS ROUTE

Target Users

Real-estate developers, Social, public and cooperative housing providers

More Information

Utrecht, Netherlands

Oceanic

Integrated Renewables & Storage Systems

VALUE

The result is a social housing apartment building that generates more energy than it consumes, eliminating residents’ energy bills. Beyond energy savings, the solution improves residents’ quality of life through better insulation, a more comfortable indoor climate and improved air quality. The Inside Out approach also makes renovation faster, more affordable and less disruptive. Instead of treating renovation as one large intervention, the system uses prefabricated building blocks (modules) that can be combined according to each building’s needs and ambitions. By integrating key components into the building’s exterior, homes remain livable throughout the renovation process. Developed from an initial successful pilot and progressively refined, this flexible system demonstrates how energy-positive renovation can be scaled up across existing high-rise housing, combining affordability, sustainability and improved living conditions.

APPLICATION

The social housing building on Henriëttedreef in Utrecht is Europe’s first renovated energy-generating apartment building. As a pilot for the Inside Out renovation system, it demonstrates an integrated approach to sustainable high-rise renovation. Heating, ventilation, insulation and IT connections are incorporated into a new thermal envelope, with most components installed on the building’s exterior rather than inside individual apartments. These prefabricated, plug-and-play modules create a collective, cost-effective solution, while smart ventilation systems work together to maintain indoor comfort. The modules are: ● Alpha: structure for rooftop solar panels ● Bravo: energy module on the roof ● Charlie: ventilation and heating system ● Delta: insulated façade panels integrating systems ● Echo: balcony system (optionally with solar panels) ● Foxtrot: home energy management system These modules are prefabricated in factories and quickly assembled on-site, minimising disruption for residents and enabling large-scale adoption. They are compatible with different energy sources like heat pumps or district heating.