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Matrix develops innovative hub for business

The Hague, 21 January 2025 – Deerns is designing the new Matrix Innovation Center in Amsterdam: an innovative hub for scientific development and connection.

Deerns is a key member of the project design team working on the new Matrix building located in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. This new building is the fourth project with the client, thereby reinforcing our contribution to a sustainable and innovative future. Through an integrated installation design and innovative approach to the building envelope, we contribute to Matrix’s sustainability ambitions.

Matrix develops and leases specialist Science Innovation Centres. After completing successful projects at the Amsterdam Science Park, the organisation is expanding to the Zuidas with a new building near the Vrije Universiteit (VU). ‘The new Innovation Centre will be the beating heart of young, innovative talent: a meeting place where start-ups, scale-ups and spin-ins collaborate on breakthroughs that will shape the future of life sciences.’ explains Ivo Sweep, Managing Director of Matrix. The new Matrix building will be a part of the VU Campus ecosystem, leasing multiple floors for its incubator programme and a showcase lab dedicated to an entrepreneurial education programme: The Demonstrator Lab.

“The Matrix Innovation Center is pioneering technological developments and innovations in life sciences. At Deerns, we are proud to contribute to projects like these which are pushing the boundaries of the sector,” said Frank Houben, Manager Director of Deerns, The Netherlands.

Deerns is responsible for design of installations and lab equipment and is working with the following partners within this project: VKZ BV, (project management); NUDUS, (architecture); IMd Raadgevende Ingenieurs, (structural engineering); Baljon landschapsarchitecten, (gardens); moBius consult bv, (building physics, fire); Fokkema & Partners, (interior architecture); Building Revolution, (sustainability); Studio Rublek, (lighting).

Here’s where Science comes to life

The new Matrix building is designed to be versatile and accessible. Featuring a mix of ‘wet labs’ and ‘dry labs,’ these facilities support both wet-chemical and technological research.

In addition, public accessibility plays an important role in the design. The design combines openness and functionality, with amenities such as a freely accessible restaurant on the ground floor and large windows giving a glimpse of the innovative activities within the laboratories. An indoor garden and a roof terrace will also be created, making the location ideal for meetings and events.

Deerns and Matrix build impactful environments

Matrix sets new standards in sustainability, with the new building meeting the requirements for a BREEAM Excellent certificate. Deerns designed a building envelope with optimal insulation, triple glazing and high-quality materials. This enables passive heating and significantly reduces energy consumption. Smart solutions, such as natural ventilation and advanced Smart Building systems, also contribute to a comfortable indoor climate and efficient building management.

Besides sustainability, the well-being of users has also been considered. The design combines daylighting, a pleasant indoor climate and excellent sound insulation, ensuring a healthy and productive working environment.

This project highlights the unique and trusted collaboration between Matrix and Deerns, in which exceptional technical performance and sustainability come together to create impactful and inspiring facilities. The new innovation centre is expected to be completed in 2027.

Let’s talk

Cosimo Verteramo

Division Director Life Science & Electronics

Array