Resource-efficient construction technology

Citra

Citra develops, designs and builds homes and homesites using a unique construction technology that doesn’t rely on steel, bricks or concrete. The technology reduces CO2 emissions by 75% during construction and 100% during use, achieving net zero emissions for homes. Compared to traditional houses, construction costs are reduced by 20% and construction time by up to 80%.

How would you describe your solution in a few words?

Citra’s construction technology reduces construction-related CO2 emissions by 75% and utilisation-related emissions by 100% (net-zero houses). Compared to traditional houses of the same size, construction costs are reduced by 20% and construction time by up to 80%.

The patented technology combines an insulation core with a composite structure of fire-resistant ribs and sprayed-on hyper-strength plaster. Well-insulated, up to four-storey residential buildings can be constructed without steel, bricks or concrete.

The technology is made for mobile automation and the upcoming plastering robots, which will revolutionise conventional mass housing construction in the next 10-20 years.

Who are your customers?

Customers are both end customers (B2C) and land developers (B2B). Currently active in South Africa; Switzerland and the USA are being developed, with other countries to follow. The focus is on affordable mass housing, supplemented by hotels, luxury homes and modular houses.

Mineral ribs with EPS panels in between, plastered on both sides, create a fire-resistant composite structure. The roof has a waterproof coating and is fitted with PV panels. © Citra

What are the environmental benefits of your solution?

Construction-related CO2 emissions are reduced by 75%, and utilisation-related emissions reduced by up to 100% (net-zero houses) if part of the roof includes PV-panels. The homes are very robust, hence require less maintenance and enjoy a longer lifespan. When broken down, most of the insulation material can be recycled.

How do you manage to exist on the market?

Above market quality and outstanding design distinguishes Citra from competitors in South Africa, while prices are competitive. In Switzerland, additional key aspects in the competition include faster construction, lower cost and thinner walls permitting larger usable areas for a given footprint.