Taste and Scent Innovation and Customer Experience Center is Underway in Lakeland, Florida's Citrus Belt

Ryan Companies US, Inc. (Ryan), a national commercial real estate solutions provider, was previously appointed as the lead developer, architect, construction and management team on IFF’s new Citrus Innovation Center at Florida Polytechnic University in Lakeland, Fla. Just last week, we broke ground on the 28,000-square-foot facility, with project completion slated for third quarter 2023.

“Ryan is one of the nation’s leading single source firms for all commercial projects with our development, architecture, capital investments, builder and real estate management business lines acting as one unit to efficiently deliver for our clients,” said JP Bacariza, Vice President, Market Leader – Tampa at Ryan Companies. “Chosen as the trusted partner in creating environments that will enhance the learning experience for the researchers, faculty and students, now and for years to come, Ryan is thrilled to be awarded the opportunity to work alongside Florida Polytechnic and IFF in order to propel Florida’s Citrus industry forward.”

Located at 4700 Research Way, the site of the new best-in-class facility is nestled on Florida Polytechnic University’s campus and features a private citrus research garden. “The new Citrus Innovation Center is a perfect blend of artistry, science, and expertise. The innovation center that supports our citrus research and development activities will provide sensory and experience venues, research labs, processing and analytical departments, and amenities for hosting visiting guests and researchers,” said Mauricio Poulsen, Vice President of Global Innovation, Creation and Design, Nourish Division of IFF. Upon completion, Ryan will own and maintain the facility for IFF.

Ryan’s Architecture + Engineering (A+E) team focused on highlighting the ephemeral behavior of flavors and fragrances through the design of the building. Key design elements include an undulating ribbon of perforated metal panels that ensconces the building and flows through the central spine of the interior. The ribbon reflects the density and discernment of aromas, scents and taste sensations, accentuating moments of sensory experience, and the flow of those experiences, between spaces. The unique patterned screen was designed with assistance from Ryan’s Computational Design team to highlight patterns derived from the abstract idea of scent and taste mapping.

“The ethereal nature of the design concept was challenging, however Ryan was able to successfully create a dynamic, unique architectural expression that reflects the nature of the work being done within the facility while complementing the existing architecture on the campus,” said Linaea Floden, Regional Director of Architecture for Ryan A+E.

Ryan has completed nearly 50 projects in Florida in five years, reaching over 4.1 million square feet delivered in the market. With each project Ryan examines various aspects, such as a client's unique geographic position, service line growth projections, the surrounding community, and the competitive landscape, as they aim to shape and implement successful solutions for their clients.