HOUTEN, March 3, 2026 - Investment company Larendael today announced the realization of
The Wood Farm: a contiguous area of just under 35 acres where sustainable
food production, energy, innovation and social connection come together. Through the
acquisition of the Jongerius site, Fortweg 5 and Essenkade 2-4, entrepreneur Wim
Beelen formed one area in Houten. With the purchase of Essenkade 2-4, the total plan will be
now fully viable. “We are going to show here how agriculture, innovation and sustainability meet
can strengthen. Not on paper, but visibly in practice.’’

Larendael invites the municipality of Houten, the Utrecht region, knowledge institutions, entrepreneurs and
residents to actively participate in building this new model. The Wood Farm is founded on
three core values: Connecting. Produce. Restore.

Connecting: From farmer to plate
This is where The Wood Farm is taking shape: a place where organic food is grown, animals
are held and visitors can experience up close where their food comes from. The
principle ‘from farm to fork’ is central. What grows on the land returns to the restaurant and the
farm store. Transparent, local and honest. “People these days hardly know where
their food comes from,” says Wim Beelen. “Here we bring that back together. What you put on your plate here
gets, also grows here.”

The plans extend beyond agriculture. The Wood Farm is to become a
experience center for the Utrecht region, where families can recreate, children can learn about
nature and food and visitors experience agriculture up close. In addition to a restaurant and a
store will include a natural playground. Education, meeting and recreation will play a
important role.

Producing: smart and sustainable
The site will provide space for startups and innovative forms of agriculture and
food technology. Entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to experiment with sustainable
cultivation methods, circular systems and technology applications. Discussions are also
conducted with a university on research and innovation collaboration so that
practice and science can reinforce each other.

Sustainability is the foundation of the entire plan. On-site renewable energy
generated, including through solar power and smart storage. The goal is for the area to be completely in its
own energy needs and operate energy-neutral. Also, an innovative
data center function explored, using waste heat to heat greenhouses.
Food, energy and data reinforce each other within one cohesive ecosystem.

Recovery: space for people and environment
The Houtense Boerderij also offers a rest stop for the Utrecht region. A farm campsite offers
temporary residence for people in need of space and perspective. Working with the hands
and with their feet in the clay contributes to recovery and balance. The natural playground gives children
the chance to romp freely.

With The Wood Farm, Larendael wants to set a regional example in which economy,
ecology and social value come together. ‘’Now that all the land is in our possession, we can really
going to build. ’’You shouldn't talk about a more sustainable future,‘’ says Wim Beelen, ''but that
just realize’’

For questions or further clarification, please contact info@larendael.nl.