UTRECHT
Mainfreight, a global logistics service provider, is due to sign a 10-year lease with
Union Investment for the entire logistics destination Hydra Utrecht. Located at the
Lage Weide business park in Utrecht, Hydra Utrecht was developed by STELLAR
DEVELOPMENT CV (a collaboration between Heembouw and Stellar
Development BV) and has been acquired by Union Investment. Architectural
builder Heembouw Architecten was responsible for Hydra Utrecht’s design.
This top-quality distribution center consists of approximately 20,000 m2 of
warehouse space, a mezzanine floor of approximately 1,500 m2, and around
1,350 m2 of office space. Nature-inclusive features were given a fundamental role
in the design. The sprinkler tank, for example, is positioned centrally on the
property and functions as Europe’s largest permanent insect hotel, contributing to
a design around the needs of both humans and animals.
Mainfreight has been offering integrated warehousing, transport and distribution
solutions since its inception in 1978, and currently has more than 330 branches
worldwide. Hydra Utrecht allows Mainfreight to serve its customers and teams in
an optimum manner, now and in the future.
Each Stellar Development destination is characterized by a unique connection of
its four brand pillars: Architecture, Nature, Technology, and Functionality.
Next to designing with an eye toward optimal logistical functionalities, much
attention was paid to incorporating nature and biodiverse elements into the
outdoor spaces. Working in close collaboration with specialists, a well-considered
and nature-inclusive design was created including various statements, such as
the above-mentioned insect hotel and a rich, blooming grassland that completely
frames the destination. A design that keeps up with the area and was inspired by
the traditional landscape. Improving water management for the site, and
surrounding residential area, has also been an important consideration in the
design plan. Interventions have been included that allow rainwater to penetrate
the soil more easily, so that flooding of the surrounding residential area can be
prevented at peak rainfall.
JLL and 3Stone Real Estate were responsible for the lease of this destination