Chiel van Dijen, international head of development at Kadans Science Partner looks at the future of sustainable buildings.
The future of workspaces is being shaped by the growing demand for sustainability and flexibility. As industries such as life sciences, agri-food, and technology evolve, businesses are moving away from traditional suburban industrial parks, and instead are seeking more dynamic, urban locations that prioritise accessibility, location and sustainability. This trend isn’t just about location – it reflects a broader expectation for workspaces that cater to the needs of a modern workforce while addressing global issues like climate change and resource scarcity.
Organisations are under pressure from their workforces to reimagine their built environments to align with the innovation and care we invest in our homes. There’s a growing appetite for workspaces to be environments that embody core values such as innovation, flexibility, and environmental stewardship. Whether it’s in labs, offices, or collaborative spaces, the challenge lies in creating settings that balance purpose with the planet’s needs, offering solutions that inspire and last.
More than ever, companies can’t just look for a functional building. Instead, it is of the utmost importance that they have spaces which attract talent, foster innovation, and contribute to a sustainable future. In fact, when it comes to attracting skilled workers and recent graduates, particularly in sectors like life sciences and technology, there is a growing impetus for flexible, urban locations to be in accessible, city-based environments. This drives the need for more intelligent buildings that meet operational needs and align with the importance placed on sustainability and well-being.
The importance of smart buildings
As well as reducing energy consumption and operating costs, smart buildings are also critical in addressing some of the most pressing challenges we face today – from climate change to resource scarcity. Buildings account for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions, most stemming from inefficient energy use. Smart buildings offer a path forward by using technology to reduce waste, improve energy efficiency, and create healthier living and working environments.
Smart buildings also reflect a shift in how we think about urban spaces. Buildings have moved past their status as static entities, and instead are dynamic environments that adapt to the needs of its users. This adaptability is crucial as industries evolve, particularly in sectors like life sciences, agri-food, and technology, where innovation thrives in flexible, collaborative spaces.
At Kadans, we have long recognised the importance of smart, sustainable buildings. Our mission is to develop research and innovation facilities that meet today’s standards and are future-proofed for tomorrow’s innovators. In fact, one of our latest projects - Plus Ultra Wageningen III - encapsulates this vision. Set in the heart of the Wageningen University & Research campus its location offers the ideal combination between work, life and education, and its design is a great example of an adaptable, sustainable space.
Plus Ultra Wageningen III: Setting new standards for sustainable innovation hubs
Plus Ultra Wageningen III is designed to support the agri-food and biobased sectors and is a testament to the power of sustainable construction. In these sectors, where innovation and flexibility are key, companies need spaces that can grow and adapt with them. Plus Ultra Wageningen III offers a highly adaptable environment where labs, offices, and pilot plants can be customised to meet the needs of each tenant. This flexibility is important as industries evolve, and allows research organisations, start-ups, and established companies to rapidly scale operations and adapt their spaces in real-time.
Beyond its technological advancements, Plus Ultra Wageningen III leads by example in sustainable construction. The building is primarily constructed from cross-laminated timber (CLT), a renewable resource that stores approximately one tonne of CO2 per cubic metre of wood. This significantly reduces the carbon footprint of the structure and contributes to a CO2-negative building process, a significant environmental advantage when compared to traditional materials. What’s more, the building uses recycled materials and solar panels, rainwater collection systems, and energy-efficient LED lighting to further minimise its environmental impact.
With over 7,500 square meters of laboratories and offices, Plus Ultra Wageningen III integrates advanced smart sensor technologies to optimise everything from climate control to energy use, ensuring operational efficiency. Yet, sustainability is also about creating spaces that enhance the well-being of the people who use them. Therefore, these smart sensors continuously monitor the internal environment, guaranteeing that the building operates at peak efficiency and is a comfortable and healthy space for its occupants. This is crucial for creating a space that encourages collaboration and innovation and fostering an environment where operational costs can be reduced by up to 20–30%, and productivity increased by 15%.
A smarter, greener future for urban workspaces
The success of smart buildings like Plus Ultra Wageningen III highlights how sustainable construction and technological innovation can work together to shape future cities. As businesses and communities face growing challenges, from climate change to resource efficiency, smart buildings offer a practical solution - reducing emissions, conserving energy, and creating dynamic environments that cater to evolving needs.
By blending innovative design, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to environmental stewardship, Plus Ultra Wageningen III sets a benchmark for what urban workspaces can achieve. It’s a clear reminder that the future of urban development must be driven by collaboration, flexibility and sustainability. These are the principles that will define the next generation of smart cities.