Danone Nutricia Research Centre, Utrecht

 A Global Hub for Nutrition Innovation

The new Nutricia Research Centre is the new international hub for both the Danone Baby and the Medical Nutrition research and development facilities, located at the Uithof in Utrecht. The building exudes the aura of a high-quality international knowledge institute, with the large central meeting hall serving as a hub for internal development and knowledge exchange. It includes ML-I and ML-II level laboratories, a food production testing plant, as well as a ‘trial’ area for testing and tasting new products. The conference centre, offices and a plaza with restaurant facilities are also key elements of this new research hub.

Deerns Solutions

OVG, the building developer appointed Deerns for:

• Technical Design
• Recalibrating Programme of Requirements
• Checking specifications and construction preparation drawings of the Engineer & Construct contractor.

For the design of the building service installations, lighting and smart building solutions, Deerns considered the user experience and future building use.

By engaging the tenant, Danone, Deerns created a design which met the needs for the building users. Deerns analysed Danone’s work processes and translated these into the design configuration for the laboratory layout, ICT networks, security, kitchen layout, audiovisual equipment, emergency power supply as well as the layout of the pilot plant and offices. In addition, the building has achieved a high level of sustainability, awarded with a BREEAM Excellent design certificate.

Scope of Deerns

Technical design

Preliminary/ Conceptual Design

Detailed Design:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Control Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Conveyor Systems

Smart Building Services

Sustainability Consulting

• BREEAM Excellent