The journey began with a bold vision. RMH was first selected to provide mechanical and electrical engineering design for a 70,000-square-foot research and development facility for WhiteWave Foods, now part of Danone, one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies. Designed to foster innovation, the facility included a pilot plant, quality assurance and product testing laboratories, a culinary kitchen with a sensory lab, open and private offices, and conference rooms. From day one, RMH brought deep technical knowledge and close coordination to support the client’s mission of advancing nutrition and sustainability through science.
Years later, as the pandemic reshaped how and where people work, Danone’s needs shifted. They no longer required a traditional office environment. Instead, they needed a flexible workplace that could support a hybrid workforce and promote collaboration.
RMH received a call and got to work.
RMH was in a unique position to provide assistance. With original building plans on file, institutional knowledge of the facility, and a project team already familiar with the systems and stakeholders, RMH was ready to deliver a seamless renovation process that respected both timeline and technical complexity.
Danone aimed to consolidate two separate offices into a unified 40,000-square-foot building without disrupting the critical work of its Research & Innovation team. RMH’s engineers worked closely with Danone and trade partners to maintain uninterrupted lab operations while executing design solutions that transformed the office environment into a collaborative free-address concept.
The engineering scope encompassed comprehensive demolition design, reconfiguration of HVAC and electrical systems, and upgrades to lighting, controls, and fire protection. RMH’s electrical team delivered new power distribution for collaborative spaces, a coffee bar, and computer equipment. Mechanical engineers rebalanced airflows, modified hydronic piping, and adapted DDC controls to support the flexible new layout. The team also ensured that all systems met the latest local code requirements for energy performance and life safety.
By combining legacy knowledge with fresh thinking, RMH delivered a tailored solution that aligned with Danone’s evolving culture without missing a beat.
It’s a story of continuity. Of responsiveness. And of what’s possible when engineering and trust go hand in hand to address tomorrow’s challenges with the same dedication and excellence that have defined our journey so far.
