1989
We have worked in horticultural research and technology development since 1989. Our work started with Buro Meeuws, a consultancy and research practice focused on horticulture. Early collaborations included work with Grodan on hydroponic cultivation systems and projects with Philips on assimilation lighting using high-pressure sodium lamps.

Data analysis
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s we increasingly focused on the quantitative analysis of plant growth. A large data collection project covering hundreds of cultivation sites led to the development of algorithms that later formed the basis of the Plant Balance Model.

These analyses showed that crop performance is often far below its biological potential, both in open-field agriculture and in greenhouse production. Environmental variability and limited control play a central role in this gap.

LED-lighting
In 2005 this work led to the development of a first indoor farming prototype using LED lighting and precise climate control. The objective was not to reproduce outdoor conditions but to create an environment optimized for plant performance.

PlantLab
In 2010 we founded PlantLab, with Gertjan Meeuws as CEO. The company established its R&D activities in the Netherlands and opened offices in both the Netherlands and Silicon Valley. PlantLab expanded internationally and developed several indoor farming concepts. Differences in long-term vision led to our departure in 2014.

Laminar airflow
In 2015 our work continued with the development of a climate control concept based on laminar airflow, inspired by applications in cleanrooms and medical environments.

Seven Steps To Heaven
In 2018 we established Seven Steps To Heaven to develop and apply the laminar airflow technology platform further, combining laminar airflow climate control with optimized LED lighting and environmental management.

Blue Skies Group
In 2020 we established Blue Skies Group together with Schwarz Gruppe, the parent company of Lidl and Kaufland. The project includes the largest indoor farm in the world and an R&D facility in Helmond, the Netherlands.

Current position
Today our work focuses on further improving the biological and technological foundations of indoor farming.