Platform on new construction, renovation, restoration and transformation
A new packaging facility with office space for Noordhuys Tomatoes was completed in late 2025 at a strategic location on the N57 in Oude-Tonge. The new building was commissioned by The Greenery, designed by Kort Geytenbeek Architects, and stands out for its modern design, in which the office protrudes five meters outward from the facade.
The project came about through word of mouth. “What’s more, Noordhuys Tomatoes was very impressed by an earlier design of ours for JIMMY Products BV in Ridderkerk,” says Benno van Luttikhuizen, architect and director of Kort Geytenbeek Architecten. “Whereas in Ridderkerk, office space, production, packaging, warehousing, and distribution could be accommodated across more than 17,000 m², in Oude-Tonge we were working with a more compact area of 8,000 m² gross floor area (GFA), of which 6,100 m² GFA was designated for the new packaging hall. It was a fun challenge, which we tackled with great enthusiasm.”
“The main guiding principle behind Noordhuys Tomatoes was a practical and affordable design,” says Van Luttikhuizen. “The logistics layout had to be optimized to ensure an efficient product flow. In addition, we had to comply with strict food safety standards, and sustainability was a priority from the very beginning. Thanks to smart building choices, energy-efficient solutions, and a strict separation of motorized (freight) traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians, the building is eligible for a high BREEAM certification.”
The design process began at the structural level. “We first determined the logistical layout,” says Van Luttikhuizen. “Next, we examined what building mass we could project onto this lot, the maximum height we were allowed to build, and which environmental factors might influence our design. For example, what was the orientation in terms of sunlight? And how could we increase visibility from the N57? Various analyses ultimately led to an elongated office volume at the front, which gives the building character and pays homage to the expanse of the highway.” By then integrating the name and logo of Noordhuys Tomatoes into the architecture in an elegant way, we created a striking calling card. “A calling card that can also be easily adapted whenever the corporate identity changes.”
Because the front of the new building also faces south, special attention was paid to solar gain. “To block the sun’s rays before they reach the glass and to better control the indoor climate, horizontal louvers have been incorporated into the facade,” explains Van Luttikhuizen. “In addition, secondary sunshades have been installed behind the louvers to block the low-angle sun in early spring and late fall. This automatically creates a more pleasant working environment.”
In the new building, the main entrance and the staff entrance are strictly separated, he explains. This is due, in part, to the strict hygiene requirements. “The layout has also been optimized from a logistical standpoint. For example, loading docks have been installed on both sides of the new building. Tomatoes are received on the west side and transported to the packing hall. Here, they are inspected, weighed, sorted, packed, and labeled, after which they leave the building on the east side.” At the rear, there are storage areas stocked with packaging materials, crates, and pallets. Waste processing also takes place here. “To ensure optimal quality, the tomatoes are always stored and processed under refrigeration.”
Employees and visitors can meet in the company cafeteria, which features a green outdoor space at the front. It’s a lovely finishing touch to the design, as are all the green spaces on the grounds.
