Hall Of Fame

Firms To Watch: Construction

Jacob Henriquez launched the construction practice at Ploum in 2018 and the team has since developed with specific expertise in FIDIC contracts, both contentious and non-contentious, as well as construction-related matters within the renewable energy sector.

Construction in Netherlands

AKD

AKD offers a strong contentious and non-contentious construction practice, partnered with an experienced real estate team. The cross-practice expertise allows the firm to advise on all aspects of large projects, specifically inner-city developments, as well as logistics, residential and office building spaces, including instructing on real estate transactions, disputes, project finance and PFI, PPP, and M&A. The firm has a unique focus on maritime construction projects, particularly offshore energy including wind, and the team is also experienced in environmental, planning and regulatory issues impacting construction. The practice is led by Marc Wintgens and Sven Billet, the former of whom is experienced in counselling large construction companies and government bodies, and he recently advised on incoming sustainability requirements legislation. Jeanette Luijten is known for her work in high-profile construction disputes.

Practice head(s):

Sven Billet; Marc Wintgens


Other key lawyers:

Jeanette Luijten; Floris van Westrhenen


Testimonials

‘Strong engagement and awareness of each client’s unique context. Able to swiftly mobilise required skills and experience. Prompt reaction.’

‘Very up to date insight in Dutch and European development in the field of tendering and construction. Teams have balanced setting. Good guidance by lead Marc Wintgens.’

‘Expertise, guts, speed.’

‘I greatly appreciate the AKD team. The main attribute of this team is that they understand the issues but are pragmatic in their approach. Great litigators and easy to work with.’

‘Floris van Westrhenen has and continues to be an exceptional legal adviser. He is tactical, smart, self assured and fun to work with. His approach is to achieve the best for his client without burning commercial bridges.’

‘AKD has a thorough knowledge of construction and the construction market. Their expertise and approach is unrivaled.’

‘Practice head Marc Wintgens can deal with any high-level construction case, is easy accessible and an excellent negotiator.’

Key clients

Netflix


Univé


Allianz Real Estate GmbH


InterEst


Port of Rotterdam


Greystar Real Estate Partners


Goodman


Segro


Life Europe


TB3 Investment


Epicenter Stockholm


VolkerWessels


Philips


WDP


Green Real Estate


M&G Real Estate


Kaan Architects


DW Partners


DSV


Development Company Greenport Venlo (DCGV)


Prologis


Crosslane


Flow Real Estate


Profinn


Joint Owners of the Entrada Area


Prorail


Hercuton


Edge Technologies (former OVG Real Estate)


Work highlights


  • Advising longstanding client, VolkerWessels, on the largest development and construction project in The Netherlands, Strijp-S.
  • Advises Maersk on the development contracts and design and build contracts suites and contractor procurement strategy with respect to the Maasvlakte II and the Port of Rotterdam.
  • Advised Zalando on the site acquisition, the procurement, development and construction with respect to their 140,000 sqm’s distribution center in Bleiswijk.

De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek

The multidisciplinary team at De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek offers comprehensive advice covering the lifecycle of construction matters from contract management, project development, projects in distress and litigation. The firm is particularly active in the infrastructure, utilities and energy sectors, particularly energy transitioning and sustainable LNG projects. The cross-practice team offers clients full-service advice covering a range of construction-related issues including financing, compliance, procurement and disputes. Practice head, Bommel van der Bend, is experienced in international arbitration and specialises in public procurement law, as well as contracting strategies. Sebastien Davys-Brown, lead associate, is focused on project set up, project distress and litigation, particularly within the infrastructure sector, including the high-profile dispute pertaining to Schipol airport.


Practice head(s):

Bommel van der Bend


Other key lawyers:

Sebastien Davys-Brown; Alexandra Crisan; Edward van Guens


Testimonials

‘This practice has a considerable depth of knowledge due to its international reach giving it a pool of knowledge not available to other firms. The practice responded quickly and was agile in bringing the necessary expertise to bear on the challenges we faced.’

‘It is the balanced approach which impressed the most, throughout there was an openness and a willingness to discuss issues with, and seek views from the wider team where the long term implications and strategies could be developed, accounting for wider business considerations.’

‘If I need assistance on construction matters in the future I would be delighted to work with key advisors Edward van Geuns and Sebastien Davys-Brown, they have been approachable, available, and prepared to work through issues considering all aspects of the issues before giving clear advice and setting out options with pros and cons.’

‘Top quality legal services, highly skilled professional lawyers.’

‘Sebastien Davys Brown; quick and smart thinker, excellent and thorough analysis of the problems at hand, creative solutions and much appreciated hands-on attitude.’

‘We have an excellent team from de Brauw, very knowledgeable, and a pleasure to work with. They are quick to respond at all times, and are always accessible.’

‘Very efficient to have a native English speaker as lawyer, knowledgeable in construction contracts, as part of a broader team, that also takes Dutch law into account. Both Sebastien Davys-Brown and Micheline de Graaf are of great service to us. Bommel van der Bend contributes an important part as specialist in public tendering.’

‘Broad and deep understanding of the business of the the customer. Efficiency and effectivity. Demonstrate commitment to their customer and the case. Make the extra step. Great culture.’

Key clients

Schiphol Airport


TenneT


N.V. Nederlandse Gasunie


Foundation Preparation PALLAS-reactor


EDGE Real Estate B.V


PJSC Nolipetsk Steel


T Mobile Netherlands


Egeria


HEMA


Nordian Capital


Gasunie Nederlands N.V


Novolipetsk Steel Company (NLMK)


Royal Dutch Shell


VOPAK


Work highlights


  • Advising Schiphol Airport in relation to the upgrading of airport facilities through the construction of a new pier and terminal building, critical pieces of infrastructure to upgrade the capacity and future proof the asset.
  • Instructing Gasunie on the construction and set up of the Eems Energy Terminal, involving the construction and connection of a natural gas floating regasification unit (“FSRU”) in Eemshaven, the Netherlands.
  • Advising PALLAS with the construction of a new multifunctional nuclear reactor and health center to provide a source of radioisotopes to be used in medical, industrial and research and development applications.

HabrakenRutten

Focusing exclusively on built assets in infrastructure, real estate, energy and technology, HabrakenRutten regularly acts for large construction companies and developers across the Netherlands. The boutique practice is led by Sjoerd Rutten, Peter Habraken and Henk Raven. Habraken specialises in industry-specific advice and asset development, meanwhile Rutten spearheads the contentious construction practice and is active litigation, arbitration, risk management and dispute prevention. Raven is experienced in contract and corporate work related to infrastructure, construction and real estate. The practice has recently expanded with Sander Simonetti and associate Pieter Leopold, arriving with expertise in projects, transactions and regulation within the renewable energy sector. Jan Brölmann is a further addition who focuses on the tech industry.


Practice head(s):

Peter Habraken; Sjoerd Rutten; Henk Raven


Other key lawyers:

Robert van Agteren


Testimonials

‘The team avails of a lot of skills, experience and knowledge. A safe pair of hands with respect to both litigation and legal advice, with a good sense of commercial feasibility.’

‘The individuals are dedicated to their clients and have a practical and innovative approach. The partners are accessible and respond swiftly and spot on to any questions and requests. They are creative in their approach which can make the difference.’

‘Mr. Sjoerd Rutten and Mr. Robert van Agteren take a no nonsense approach and do most of the work themselves.’

Key clients

Royal BAM Group


Boskalis


Dura Vermeer


TBI Holdings


HES International


VanderValk Hotel Group


Infrared Capital Partners


Infracapital M&G Investment Management Ltd


Work highlights


  • Advised BAM and Van Oord on the early termination of its PDC contract with the State, for the complete restructuring of the Hoevelaken A1 and A28 Motorways intersection.

Houthoff

The construction team at Houthoff, based in Rotterdam, has gained experience in claim prevention and management on large developments during the execution phase, showing the firm’s contentious capacity alongside transactional matters. The team is led by Michel Klijn, a qualified civil engineer, who demonstrates a wealth of experience across complex project and contract work within the industry. The team is supported by the firm’s full-service structure, and effectively leverages its wider procurement and regulatory expertise. Combining its real estate and construction capabilities, the team is able to offer strategic advice to its broad client base, including key infrastructure institutions. Recent work demonstrating this ability includes advising in relation to the large Westfield redevelopment in Leidsenhage. Counsel Sander van den Boogaart specialises in construction law, projects and project financing and PPPs.

Practice head(s):

Michel Klijn


Other key lawyers:

Sander van den Boogaart


Testimonials

‘Houthoff combines in-depth knowledge and great dedication to provide their clients with high quality and yet very practical advice – absolutely the best in the Dutch construction market.’

‘Sander van den Boogaart – his practice is hands-on and dedicated to the job and the client. He is good at listening and good at coming up with solutions.  He often knows our key contracts better than we know them ourselves.’

‘Team is not only knowledgeable on legal matters but has hands-on experience in the building and construction industry. This gives them an edge.’

Key clients

Bol.com


Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield


Schiphol Airport


Bysteel S.A., Portuguese firm part of DST Group


Greystar


Attero


HagaZiekenhuis


Nederlandse Spoorwegen


Zadelhoff


Siza


FCC


VolkerWessels


ARUP


Work highlights


  • Represents Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield in the redevelopment of the Leidsenhage shopping mall in Leidschendam-Voorburg, the Netherlands, including representation in court in various major legal proceedings.
  • Acting as the legal counsel of FCC, the EPCM contractor of the A9 Badhoevedorp, a major motorway PFI project.
  • Representing OPCW in all development, procurement, construction and zoning and planning-related matters of its new Centre for Chemistry and Technology, to be located near The Hague.

Stibbe

Stibbe offers in-depth experience of PPP and PFI projects and is frequently involved in related restructurings, acting for lenders, contractors, sponsors and municipalities. The practice is led by David Orobio de Castro and Ingmar de Groot, both experienced in contracting, PPP and PFI projects. Groot is also at the helm of the firm’s litigation expertise in construction disputes. The firm has specific experience in infrastructure and logistics projects and related transactional and financing matters.

Other key lawyers:

Lorraine Kersten; Iris Hendriksen


Testimonials

‘The Stibbe team is characterised by a strong knowledge of the content but also a capacity to challenge the legal and negotiation strategy. They act like a critical friend but also as an expert.’

‘David Orobio de Castro is down to earth but with broad experience and clear ideas over strategy.’

‘Ingmar de Groot: Solid performance, expert, taking a more prudent and conservative approach.’

‘Lorraine Kersten is a young talent.’

‘Iris Hendriksen: Solid back office and has a good overview.’

‘David Orobio de Castro is an exceptional lawyer, the best in his field. He is very knowledgeable, experienced, a great analyst and scenario thinker, does not get lost in details, objective, and goal-oriented.’

‘Iris Hendriksen is a really good lawyer and my expectations of her are high. The same account goes for Lorraine Kersten.’

‘Delivers client focused and high level advice. Apart from construction law, they are also able to provide advice in other legal areas.’

Work highlights


  • Advised the consortium of contractors of the ZuidasDok project (Fluor, Heijmans and Hochtief) on all the legal aspects of the EUR 2bn PPP Project Zuid-As Dok, from the tender up to and including the restructuring and the termination of their contact with the State of the Netherlands.
  • Advises the Municipality of The Hague, Housing Association Staedion and Heijmans on the EUR 1,5bn major inner city restructuring and area development in the Dreven, Gaarden and Zichten areas of The Hague consisting of the renovation of 2,000 social housing units, the construction of 3,500 new houses and the realisation of commercial real estate and public areas.
  • Advised the lenders, consisting of a mix of bank lenders and the EIB, in the largest PFI transaction of the recent years, providing finance to BAAK Blankenburg-Verbinding B.V. on the rescheduling of the EUR 1bn PPP Project A24 Blankenburg connection.

Croon advocaten

Croon advocaten specialises in construction and procurement law and focuses on incorporating technical knowledge into its practice. The firm is experienced advising contracting authorities in high-profile infrastructure and utility projects, with a recent focus on large energy transition projects, both onshore and offshore. The firm is active in historical renovations and is regularly instructed by ministries and public contractors across the Netherlands, including local and regional governments. The firm has a strong litigation capacity in front of civil courts and arbitration authorities, including the Arbitration Board for the Building Industry. The practice is led by Daniel Santurio González, Nienke Keus-Goldberg, Birgit Le Haen-De Croon and Georg Huith. Associate Louisa Engels advises contracting authorities on large construction and procurement projects, and regularly litigates both in civil courts and arbitration boards.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Santurio González; Nienke Keus-Goldberg; Birgit Le Haen- de Croon; Georg Huith


Other key lawyers:

Eric Verdult; Louisa Engels


Testimonials

‘The team I have worked with at Croon Advocaten is composed of skilled and very intelligent lawyers. They are experts in their field and are pragmatic, clear and succinct. They have a very efficient way of working. I trust that the team can get the job done and deliver what is expected of them.’

‘Georg Huith is a very experienced lawyer with a lot of knowledge in the field of construction and someone who knows what he is doing. Georg knows exactly which steps have to be taken and also which consequences and risks these steps can cause. Eric Verdult is also a great lawyer, easy-going, accessible and very nice to work with.’

‘Croon Advocaten is currently particularly active with innovative tender procedures and construction contract forms, such as the two-stage tendering process, alliances and early contractor involvement.’

‘Georg Huith and Eric Verdult have high knowledge of jurisprudence and literature in the field of construction law. Both are very precise and convincing in their work.’

‘Our experience is with Georg Huith and Louisa Engels. They know how to be critical when it comes to estimating probability in files, are very good at managing expectations and are very willing to do just a little more than what is required of them. They instil great trust in clients.’

‘The team of Croon lawyers is approachable and includes several specialists in the various subfields within construction and procurement law. Croon is characterised by accessible communication and short turnaround times.’

‘Georg Huith knows better than anyone how procurement law impacts the execution phase of construction projects. In his advice, Georg is brief but comprehensive, and knows how to highlight the risks. It is a pleasure to work with Georg: he puts his client first.’

‘Louisa Engels is an excellent lawyer in her field. She has strong analytical skills and a good understanding of the wishes and interests of her client. She is pragmatic, result driven and can translate complex legal matters into clear and understandable advice.’ 

Key clients

Directorate-General for Public Works and Water Management (Rijkswaterstaat)


Central Government Real Estate Agency (Rijksvastgoedbedrijf)


Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management


Ministry of Foreign Affairs


Ministry of Internal Affairs and Kingdom


Province of Utrecht


Province of Flevoland


Province of South Holland


Municipality of Amsterdam


Municipality of The Hague


Municipality of Utrecht


Municipality of Etten-Leur


Water control board Aa en Maas


Water control board Hollandse Delta


Water control board van Delfland


Royal palace ‘Paleis Het Loo’


Museum The Mauritshuis


Frame Participations B.V.


ASR Vastgoed B.V.


ABB B.V.


TenneT TSO


Chamber of Commerce


Corporate Tender Board


Work highlights


  • Advising the Directorate-General for Public Works and Water Management regarding the renovation works on the Van Brienenoordbrug.
  • Advising Paleis Het Loo regarding the renovation of the historical royal palace and the underground expansion.
  • Representing the Municipality of Utrecht in court proceedings following arbitration proceedings before the Arbitration board for the Building Industry regarding sound leaks between the different music halls in the music complex Tivoli Vredenburg.

Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn NV

Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn NV is involved in major Dutch public projects, frequently acting for contracting public authorities. Pieter Stuijt, leads the practice and focuses on procurement disputes and engages in arbitration and litigation before Dutch domestic civil courts. Mark Birnage specialises in procurement and contracting of major projects, including PPP projects, concessions and DBFMO contracts, and frequently represents the Dutch state in construction disputes. Maarten van Rijn, advisor to the Central Government Real Estate Agency on its construction projects, is experienced in drafting and reviewing tender documents and handling disputes on complex procurement and development issues.

Practice head(s):

Pieter Stuijt


Other key lawyers:

Mark Birnage; Maarten van Rijn; Diederik Wolters Rückert; Elisa Palm


Testimonials

‘The team has a very strong knowledge of the field of law they are working in. They also work together very well. The connection with other sections of law within the firm is very good.’

 ‘The individuals stand out in knowledge and experience in the field of law and always thrive to find the best possible solution in any case. They are always available when you need them and are also very good advocates in the courtroom.’ 

‘So far, my experience with Pels Rijcken has been great. To work for the government is definitely not an easy task but what makes them stand out from the others is the fact that they are extremely good at understanding the contents and the complexity of the issue in no time.’

 ‘Diederik Wolters Rückert is a very pleasant person to work with. He knows exactly what needs to be done and he doesn’t stop until he gets the best results for his clients. He is a pragmatic lawyer who analyses and considers every possibility until he finds the right one.’

 ‘Pels Rijcken’s lawyers have a lot of knowledge and experience to support a large contractor. Other offices often support the builders. Excellent knowledge of the field, contracts and authority in the market.’

 ‘The lawyers understand the business very well and have a lot of experience with several clients. What is special is that Mark Birnage, in addition to legal knowledge, also has an excellent understanding of technology.’ 

‘Elisa Palm and Pieter Stuijt are my main contact persons at Pels Rijcken. I consult both when I need to discuss something or need advice and they complement each other very well. I think this approach is a very good idea and valuable for me. Like this, they offer more expertise and more brainpower.’ 

‘Diederik Wolters Rückert and Pieter Stuijt are good interlocutors at all levels. Can clearly communicate complex legal themes to non-lawyers and are well attuned to each other, almost always coming to the right choice when it comes to the most optimal route in court cases. Very pleasant to work with.’ 

Key clients

State of the Netherlands, Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management (Rijkswaterstaat)


Philips Pension Fund


ExxonMobil/ Esso Nederland B.V.


Galapagos Real Estate Netherlands B.V.


State of the Netherlands, Ministry of Defence


State of the Netherlands, Ministry of Finance


State of the Netherlands, Central Government Real Estate Agency


State of the Netherlands, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy


State of the Netherlands, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations


The Country of Aruba


The National Police


ProRail


Province of Noord-Holland


Province of South-Holland


Province of Noord-Brabant


Province of Gelderland


City of Amsterdam


City of The Rotterdam


City of The Hague


City of Utrecht


City of Haarlem


Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO)


Central Office of Driving Licences (CBR)


The Netherlands Vehicle Authority(RDW)


HTM Personenvervoer N.V. (Passenger transport company The Hague)


De Vries Groep and Feadship Royal de Vries Shipbuilding BV


Feadship – Royal van Lent Shipyard


Rabobank


Siemens


Work highlights


  • Represented the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, Rijkswaterstaat in alternative dispute resolution proceedings for a €140m claim by the Contractor in the Zeetoegang IJmond PPP project.
  • Advised the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, Rijkswaterstaat on the execution of the €550m Afsluitdijk sea defence project.
  • Advised the joint project organisation of the State, the city of Amsterdam and ProRail on the retendering of €1bn Zuidasdok project.

Straatman Koster Advocaten

Straatman Koster Advocaten is a niche real estate and construction firm, assisting corporate and government clients with a focus on project development and procurement. The team is active in the office, residential, leisure and logistics sectors specifically, as well as increasing its involvement in renewable energy projects including wind, solar, and geothermal. The practice is led by Oliver Vermeulen, who specialises in construction law, project development and property transactions. Angela Minderhoud, member of the Dutch Construction Lawyer’s Association, focuses on pre-court dispute resolution, litigation and arbitration, and has experience in contract design, operation and negotiation.

Practice head(s):

Olivier Vermeulen


Other key lawyers:

Angela Minderhoud


Testimonials

‘Highly experienced and a very practical team. Always available and pro-active. Market leading in legal advice and negotiations regarding construction and real estate in a broad sense. Strong track record and great service.’

‘Angela Minderhoud is outstanding. Provides excellent advice in a pro-active way. She is intelligent, very skilled, highly experienced and pleasant to work with. She has a sincere interest to get the most out of the client’s case and is a fantastic negotiator.’

‘Easy to reach, fair pricing good diversity.’

‘Experts, realistic and fair in predictions of legal procedures.’

‘Angela Minderhoud is very pleasant to work with, knows what the client needs, goes the extra mile for the client, has high capabilities and is very knowledgeable in her field.’

Key clients

TenneT TSO


KanAm Grund


Koninklijke Volker Wessels Stevin


Dura Vermeer


Union Investment GmbH


Strukton Group


Synchroon / TBI


Arcadis N.V.


Arup B.V.


Valstar Simonis B.V.


Strabag


Middin


Syntrus Achmea


Hochtief


Museum Naturalis


AZ Alkmaar – football club


Woonstad Rotterdam


A Lanes A15 (Strukon, Strabag, Ballast Nedam)


Evides


Woonzorg Nederland


Demako (Belgium)


Havenbedrijf Rotterdam (Port of Rotterdam Authority)


Royal Properties Development


Crossing Borders Development


Vano Vastgoed


Back Vastgoed


BPD (formerly Bouwfonds) / Rabobank


SPIE Worksphere


Hurks Bouw


Patrizia Netherlands


Work highlights


  • Advised A Lanes A15, a large infrastructural project in the Netherlands, consisting of reconstructing and widening of an existing highway, adding new stretches of highway and reconstructing several bridges, with respect to subcontractor issues regarding the new Botlek Bridge and the highway reconstruction including negotiations and litigation.
  • Advising owner Union Investment on all legal matters regarding this execution of the project Y-Towers, which has a gross floor area of approximately 106,000 m², comprises a hotel tower and a residential tower on a four-storey plinth containing restaurants, conference facilities and offices, valued at around EUR 500m.
  • Advised TenneT, a European electricity transmission system operator, with its main activities in the Netherlands and Germany on a major dispute with a contractor regarding the design and build of a 110 Kv cable connection between two cities.

Van Doorne

Described as ‘dynamic with profound knowledge of the sector’, Van Doorne’s construction team sits within the firm’s multi-disciplinary real estate team, with clients across core sectors including commercial real estate and housing, hospitals and healthcare, housing corporations and retail. The team has capacity for contentious construction disputes with practice head, Mark Moolhuizen, including ICC proceedings on FIDIC issues. Moolhuizen is also experienced in PPPs, tendering, commercial leasing and project development. Senior associate Jordie Bakker has exposure to domestic and international construction projects, advising developers and investors across the core real estate and construction sectors.

Practice head(s):

Mark Moolhuizen


Other key lawyers:

Jordie Bakker


Testimonials

‘Customer-oriented, easily accessible, professional, connects with developments in the market.’

‘Skilled individuals, pleasant people to work with.’

‘A dedicated team, professional and available. Dynamic with profound knowledge of the sector. High quality of service.’

‘Mark Moolhuizen is dedicated, available and hands-on. He is very experienced, professional, has in depth knowledge of the sector and works very hard to achieve the best results for his client however always taking into account fair deal making. He is a pleasure to work with.’

‘Knowledgeable, to the point, astute’ Mark Moolhuizen is able to provide advice that gives direction to the discussion in a way that, while he is on ‘your’ side, gives a pragmatic solution for all parties involved. Together with Jordie Bakker he can bring a concept agreement back to the core without taking a risk of not covering all relevant topics’

‘Mark Moolhuizen with his team has excellent knowledge about construction processes and the potential liabilities of parties within these processes.’

‘The team is very well equipped to advise us on issues relating to every aspect of construction. Their way of working can be described in finding a solution which suits the client. This demands knowledge of the business and your customer.’ 

Key clients

TPG LLP


Zalmhaven C.V.


Maarsen Groep


LIFE NV


Xior Student Housing NV


Care Property Invest NV


ProRail


Tergooi Hospital


Dutch City Developments


Triginta Real Estate Fund


Stebru and Altera


Heembouw


Hornbach


Gelre


Thuismakers


ISU (International School of Utrecht)


Work highlights


  • Acted for Zalmhaven CV in the drafting and negotiation of all construction contracts in respect of the development and realisation of the Zalmhaven Tower in Rotterdam.
  • Advised as part of a cross-practice group advising LIFE NV (a Belgian developer) on preparations for the development, construction, and sale of the ‘Stationspostgebouw’ building in The Hague.
  • Advise Tergooi MC on all its real estate developments and construction projects in relation to the new main hospital location in Hilversum, the Netherlands.

Bird & Bird

Bird & Bird’s practice has a focus on construction and procurement law, with specific in-depth knowledge of circular economy, utilities, infrastructure, and renewable energy sectors. The firm takes an active role in preventing disputes and utilises the early contractor involvement contract model, co-created by Andrea Chao, to improve project completion. The team leverages the firm’s global specialisation in telecoms, energy and utilities, and integrates these sectors within the construction offering. Chao and Evelyn Tjon-En-Fa co-lead the practice, with Tjon-En-Fa also heading the Dutch litigation team and co-leading international dispute resolution at the firm. Chao specialises in construction and procurement, focusing on collaboration with contractors and regularly participating in advisory committees, including chairing the international FIDIC Task Group-17.

Practice head(s):

Andrea Chao; Evelyn Tjon-En-Fa


Other key lawyers:

Roger van Buuren; Mariam Ali; Remco Duijn


Testimonials

‘Andrea Chao has extensive knowledge about construction law. She is one of the founders of a template for collaborative contracts in construction. She knows that a good collaboration in construction is key to a successful project and how to make that part of a contract. Compared to other firms, she knows how to present herself as a business partner and to become a valued member of a tender team.’

‘Evelyn Tjon-En-Fa and Andrea Chao who, as a representative of large public clients, are extremely professional and pragmatic within the set deadlines on tendering issues.’

‘Andrea stands out because of her visibility in professional and adequate speed of action from complex issues to useful advice that is immediately understood by myself and clients.’

‘Bird & Bird is excellent to work with. The response level is exceptional and they have great knowledge with respect to the renewables sector.’

‘We regularly work with Andrea Chao, Roger van Buuren, Mariam Ali and Remco Duijn. We are very happy with their personal approach and the way they really ‘stand up’ for us as a client.’

‘Bird & Bird is a professional firm with huge expertise in the fields in which they provide their services. The good thing is that it is not only “legal expertise from the books” but also experience in dealing with actual matters, cases and situations.’

‘What stands out about Andrea Chao was that she is not only very knowledgeable, but also always de-escalates and comes up with a practical solution whenever an impasse arose. It’s great to see how her vast expertise in the field of construction agreements is put to use in the process.’

‘Andrea and the firm are particularly knowledgeable in the construction and infrastructure sectors. Not only in regard to the contractual and legal aspects, but also the technical content, the players in the ecosystem and the customs and habits of the sector.’

Key clients

BioBTX B.V.


Dutch grid connector Alliander


Municipality of Amsterdam


Tauw B.V.


Water Authority Rijnland


Circular Industries BV


Hoogheemraadschap Hollands Noorderkwartier


GroenLeven B.V.


Statkraft Renewables Benelux B.V.


Veolia Nederland B.V.


Pfalzsolar GmbH


TechnoExport Storage, a.s.


Chemoprojekt, a.s.


Green Create B.V.


Iron Mountain (Nederland) Data Centre B.V.


Work highlights


  • Advising Pfalzsolar GmbH on all its Dutch legal work relating to the development of solar PV projects in the Netherlands, including a 60 mWp project in Terneuzen.
  • Advising on the construction and financing of an innovative plant where plastics and biomass is converted to (bio)plastics (called BTX) as investors’ and lenders’ legal advisor.
  • Advising Alliander on the tendering, contracting and implementation of framework agreements, applying early contractor involvement and a collaborative approach towards construction, for the strengthening of the grid in the northern parts of the Netherlands (Project NuLelie).

CMS

CMS’s construction and real estate team is equipped to handle an array of complex disputes arising across construction and project development. The team is experienced in dispute management including mediation, litigation and international arbitration and the firm advises on construction agreements with particular focus on monitoring disputes. The team, led by Jeroen Berlage and Arno Moret, works closely with project finance, insurance and tax practitioners across the firm, and offers contentious construction experience, both domestic and international.

Practice head(s):

Jeroen Berlage; Arno Moret


Key clients

Tétris Design & Build (part of JLL)


SSI Schäfer GmbH


BBGI Management HoldCo S.a r.l.


Landesbank Saar (SaarLB)


Koninklijke BAM Groep N.V.


Nederlandse Spoorwegen (Dutch Railways)


Heimstaden B.V.


AEB


Ballast Nedam N.V.


Global Switch


Work highlights


  • Advised Janssen de Jong in obtaining the necessary permits for the realisation of logistic real estate.
  • Advising and assisting Ballast Nedam in court proceedings in relation to delay issues regarding the construction of a hotel and residential apartments in the city of Utrecht.
  • Advised Aroundtown on the regulatory aspects involved in the measures to achieve sustainability for its Dutch real estate portfolio.

Dentons

Dentons offers a dedicated construction and projects team based in Amsterdam led by Bas van Schouwenburg. The team has an international focus, deriving cross-border expertise from the wider firm’s network. The team is involved in an array of development and construction work including strategic bidding and alliances, contract analysis and disputes proceedings in court and arbitration, with specific expertise in public procurement and international projects. Bram Braat is recommended for his procurement focus.

Practice head(s):

Bas van Schouwenburg


Other key lawyers:

Bram Braat


Testimonials

‘Bram Braat is an accessible person, we have a pleasant collaboration and he has a good know-how.’

‘Broad knowledge on construction contracts.’

‘Bas van Schouwenburg. Very experienced and a good negotiator in contract making.’

‘Strong knowledge about tender law and understanding of business environment dynamics.’

‘Pro active communication. Able to connect practical cases with legal aspects in clear (non-technical) language.’

‘They know how to pair an excellent and extensive knowledge of construction law with an ability to simplify real complex matters to a clear and uncluttered overview of legal possibilities and consequences. Furthermore, they form a clever and experienced litigation team.’

‘Intelligent, straight forward, professional in all aspects, transparent and communicative.’

‘Dentons’s construction team is made up by very qualified people, they display great collegiality and share both their knowledge and spotlight amongst each other. Pleasure to work with.’

Key clients

Alliance Healthcare


Almelose Woningstichting Beter Wonen


Beulco GmbH & Co. KG


BPD Ontwikkeling B.V.


Bunge Loders Croklaan B.V.


Cocon Vastgoed Management B.V.


Comol5.vof


CTF Amsterdam


Cushman & Wakefield / DZAP


Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam


G&S Vastgoed B.V.


Gemeente Capelle aan den IJssel


GIDARA Energy B.V.


GMB Onroerend Goed B.V.


H&M Hennes & Mauritz Netherlands B.V.


Hollandia Group


Imbema Group


Impact Vastgoed


Klépierre Nederland B.V.


JustDiggit


Leyten Bouwplan Ontwikkeling B.V.


Low Carbon Energy Holdings Limited


Maarsen Groep


Nijkerk WF16 B.V. / Nijkerk Holding


Petrofac International Ltd.


Pinnacle Holding


Prowinko Nederland B.V.


Ricardo Rail


Solarfields Projecten B.V.


Stichting Woonstad Rotterdam


TBI Holdings / Croonwolter&dros / Mobilis


Union Investment Real Estate GmbH


Visser & Smit Hanab B.V.


Wester IJ-Dock C.V.


Work highlights


  • Assisting Petrofac in its bid for the construction of a 2GW 525 KV HVDC Offshore Substation, a large transformer in the North Sea where power from various wind farms is collected.
  • Assisting Bunge Loders Croklaan in the development and construction of a modern refinery for vegetable oils and fats, tank storage and office facilities in the port of Amsterdam.
  • Assisting Low Carbon in four projects for the development of several new solar fields in the Netherlands with a total capacity of 52,5 Mw.

DLA Piper

DLA Piper’s construction group sits within the wider real estate practice and operates on a multidisciplinary basis. Janet Meesters leads the group with nearly 20 years of experience and expertise in construction and public procurement law, regularly lecturing at the Dutch Institute for Construction law. Practitioners from the real estate, litigation and regulation groups work closely on construction projects, offering advice on drafting and negotiating contractual frameworks, procurement, and purchase agreements.

Practice head(s):

Janet Meesters


Key clients

Airbus


Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences


Arcadis


ArcelorMittal


ASR Real Estate


ASSET Rail


BAAK


Bacardi


Ballast Nedam


Being


Bilfinger


Delft University of Technology


Delta Development


DEME


DHL


Draken


Dura Vermeer


Dutch Central Bank


Emmi Group


GLP


Hotels van Oranje


IKEA


LyondellBasell


NH Hotels


Prologis


Red Company


RJB Group of Companies


Royal Reesink


SABIC


Safestore


TBD


33 Uniper


Work highlights


  • Representing Ballast Nedam in a construction matter concerning the realisation of the EUR 500m Mall of the Netherlands Project by Unibail-Rodamco.
  • Assisting ASSET RAIL in a high profile, politically sensitive arbitration case against ProRail, also involving construction companies Strukton, VolkerRail and BAM, in relation to the early termination of four rail maintenance contracts.
  • Advising TBD in the development of Crossroads, approximately 400 residential units and commercial units in the plinth near the train station, Amsterdam Sloterdijk.

Kennedy Van der Laan

Focusing on construction, procurement, architecture and property development, Kennedy Van der Laan’s practice covers a range of real estate and construction projects. Expanding its focus on sustainability and circular building, the practice, led by Richard-Jan Roks, is active in tendering, design and construction and post-construction disputes, as well as acquisition, leasing and property management. Roks is focused on construction and EU procurement law, specifically in the healthcare sector, and Jacobs is specialised in real estate development and transactions related to the hospitality industry. Nico Jacobs left the firm in April 2023 to become a prosecutor.

Practice head(s):

Richard-Jan Roks


Testimonials

‘Straight forward, down to earth, pragmatic and knowledgeable.’

Key clients

Port of Amsterdam


Schiphol Airport


AEW Europe


Raiffeisen Bank


AviaRent Invest


Primonial REIM


Heimstaden


Via Outlets


Fairtree Capital


Blauwhoed


Fred Development


IQNN Vastgoed


Vink Bouw


SADC


Conservatorium Hotel


NEOO


Landal Greenparks


Marriott Hotels


Accor


Mövenpick


Clink Hostels


HR Hotel Group


PPHE Hotel Group


A&O Hostels


Keolis Nederland


Ymere


De Key


De Alliantie


Eigen Haard


Omnia Wonen


Gakon Kassen- en verwarmingsindustrie


Sligro


Vodafone Ziggo


Nike Europe


Swarovski


J.P. van Eesteren


Volker Wessels


MACE


Bouwbedrijf De Nijs


Bouwmaatschappij Weboma


Rijnboutt


MVRDV


Swiss Re


Neutelings Riedijk


Rijksmuseum


Amsterdam UMC


Liberty


Future Proof Shipping


Work highlights


  • Advising Future Proof Shipping on an innovative building project concerning retrofitting an inland container vessel fuelled 100% by green hydrogen.
  • Represented the Dutch Auschwitz Committee in several legal proceedings regarding the National Holocaust Names Monument and supervised contracts with the architect and the building contractor of the monument.
  • Representing the Port of Amsterdam in a court proceedings regarding the sale and re-development of an old part of the Amsterdam Harbour and in the procurement and contracting of the design and construction of the first powdered hydrogen vessel.

Lexence

Lexence advises clients on commercial real estate, construction and development matters, including specific focus on zoning and planning, construction, leasing and tax. The practice also litigates across the stages of project development including tender and construction contracts, architectural agreements, extensions, hidden defects and failures to complete. The practice is led by Bob Bekker who specialises in real estate transactions and development.

Practice head(s):

Bob Bekker


Other key lawyers:

Jan- Willem Raadgever; Bas Martens


Testimonials

‘Good and practical advice, delivered in a way we need and like.’

‘Very competent.’

‘Incredibly smart and business oriented.’

Work highlights


  • Assisting Rizzani de Eccher with the construction of the Y-Towers in Amsterdam, including advising the client on all legal matters related to the construction, such as zoning, tax, and leasing.
  • Assisted Bestseller with its project to build a large distribution centre in Lelystad, including assisting the client with the purchase, and advising on all legal aspects of the deal, particularly those related to zoning, construction, tax, and leasing.
  • Assisting JYSK with its project to build a 25-hectare distribution centre on the Flevokust Haven industrial park in the city of Lelystad.

NautaDutilh

NautaDutilh‘s real estate and infrastructure group is experienced in Dutch project development, acting for both owners and developers on a range of matters, with particular focus and expertise on PPPs. Practice head, David van Ee, specialises in construction and development within the infrastructure and real estate fields, and is likewise recommended for his proficiency in PPPs. The firm is also active in the energy and infrastructure sectors, being engaged on several renewable energy projects and major public infrastructure builds.

Practice head(s):

David van Ee


Key clients

Erasmus Medisch Centrum Rotterdam


Triodos Bank


Facilitate Europe Ltd


Yunex Traffic


Deutsche Bank


Koninklijke BAM Groep


BNG


Expeditors


European Investment Bank (EIB)


Siemens Nederland


Siemens Energy


Siemens Healthineers


Siemens Mobility


Pathé


PM Group


ThyssenKrupp


Neste Oil


Cerner


Macquarie


Office for Metropolitan Architecture (O.M.A)


John Sisk & Son Ltd


Automatic Signal


M.A.N. Energy


Nouryon


Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam


Econocom


Allianz Nederland


KVT


Invesis


Work highlights


  • Advising the Finnish multinational oil refining company Neste Oyj with respect to the all legal aspects of its EUR 1,5bn Rotterdam Expansion Growth Project.
  • Acted as lenders legal advisor to a consortium of European commercial banks and EIB in all construction and finance aspects of a change agreement between the State of the Netherlands and the Levvel construction consortium about the Afsluitdijk renovation project.
  • Advising the Erasmus Medical Center Rotterdam with respect to an ongoing dispute with the construction consortium and the consulting engineers over defects in the facade of the new hospital building of the Erasmus Medical Center in Rotterdam.

Norton Rose Fulbright

The infrastructure team at Norton Rose Fulbright offers advice across project finance, PPPs, public procurement, contracting, infrastructure funds and regulatory. The team has expanded its activity in renewable energy projects, including solar and wind and continues to be present in PPP infrastructure and real estate construction. Daphne Broerse heads the practice and focuses on advising both private parties and government bodies on energy, infrastructure and commercial developments.

Practice head(s):

Daphne Broerse


Other key lawyers:

Annemarie Ver Loren van Themaat-Creutzberg; Marjolein Pichel


Key clients

Ballast Nedam Concessies


Heijmans Nederland


John Laing


Macquarie Capital


TBI PPP


Dura Vermeer


DEME Group


BBGI


Ørsted


Wavin


Emerald Kalama Chemicals


Strukton


Sandvik Santrade Ltd


WE I Netherlands B.V.


Dijkhuis Vastgoed Management B.V.


ING Bank NV


BNP Paribas


Avantium


Work highlights


  • Advising the lenders on the development, realisation, operation and financing of the Avantium Renewable Polymers Plant in Delfzijl, the Netherlands.
  • Advising Fresh Trading Ltd. on the acquisition of land rights and the construction and operation of a new juice terminal in the Port of Rotterdam.
  • Advising the developers of 5 of the 11 windfarms constituting the Windplan Groen wind farm project.

Severijn Hulshof Advocaten

Severijn Hulshof Advocaten is a boutique construction and public procurement firm, with an established presence in the infrastructure sector. The practice heads are Leendert van den Berg, Joost Haest, Hein Stroeve and Erik Gierman. Van den Berg is described as ‘knowledgeable’ for his approach to litigation in construction and engineering matters. Haest specialises in procurement in construction and infrastructural contracting, while Stroeve has developed expertise in geothermal heating projects and real estate-related matters.

Practice head(s):

Leendert van den Berg; Joost Haest; Hein Stroeve; Erik Gierman


Testimonials

‘Highly experienced professional experts in the field of building and construction law. Able to provide realistic guidance on the litigation process, to manage expectations. Effective and efficient hands-on approach.’

‘Mr Leendert van den Berg stood out in being able to translate to intricacies of the legislative process in clear terms understandable for laymen. On basis of his extensive network and experience we were able to quickly identify the main risks in our strategy and mitigate those effectively.’

‘Small team with personal contacts.’

Work highlights


Sight Advocaten

Sight Advocaten is a specialist firm in the field of construction and real estate. Wyke de Vos has recently joined the firm from NautaDutilh, expanding its environmental and planning capacity, and will be supported by Anneke Franken van Bloemendaal and Hans Koolen who recently arrived from Hemwood. The firm’s clients include construction companies, project developers, sponsors and public authorities, and it focuses on area and project development, with an emphasis on contentious disputes work arising between parties. Saskia Könemann and Sebastiaan Sellenraad lead the practice.

Practice head(s):

Saskia Könemann; Sebastiaan Sellenraad


Key clients

VolkerWessels Vastgoed B.V.


Roku, Inc.


Unifore Real Estate


VolkerWessels Logistics Development B.V.


W.C. Etten-Leur B.V.


Work highlights


  • Advising VolkerWessels Vastgoed B.V. on all aspects of the inner-city redevelopment of a 23.5ha (58 acres) industrial site in the centre of Amsterdam to a mixed-use site with 1,700 apartments and 100.000 square meters of business accommodation.
  • Advising Unifore Real Estate on the redevelopment of shopping centre Etten-Leur.
  • Advising Roku, Inc. on the design and build agreement for its new international headquarters office in Amsterdam.

Simmons & Simmons

Project development, construction tenders, litigation and arbitration are the key areas of focus for Simmons & Simmons‘s construction team. Leveraging the firm’s multi-jurisdictional presence, the practice is regularly involved in cross-border projects, covering both contentious and non-contentious matters, and focusing on the infrastructure, energy, accommodation and industrial sectors specifically. The construction team is linked closely with real estate and project finance practitioners within the firm. Luc Cohen leads the practice, with experience in project development, construction, procurement and dispute resolution.

Practice head(s):

Luc Cohen


Other key lawyers:

Rob Hendriks


Testimonials

‘The S&S team are genuinely second to none: professional, approachable, knowledgeable and experienced in working with international clients and inventors.’

‘They know the sector and understand how things work commercially in practice. Their advice is balanced, commercial and focused on outcomes.’

‘It really was a pleasure to work with them on several occasions, I would highly recommend them and look forward to working with them again on future transactions.’

Key clients

Hines


90 North Real Estate Partners LLP


Danone


SAS ATREAM


Blauwhoed Projectontwikkeling


NIBC


Meijer Realty Partners


Savills Investment Management


Vopak/Gasunie


RE-N Produktion ApS/RE-N Technology BV


Macquarie


Movement Real Estate / Van Deursen Group


National Recovery Program Bureau (Sint Maarten)


Work highlights


  • Assisting Hines in various construction and project development related works in relation to the acquired logistic parks ABC Westland and Fresh Park Land.
  • Advised ATREAM SAS on various construction related issues, following the acquisition of CenterParcs Port Zélande, Hampton by Hilton and CenterPracs De Eemhof, related to the refurbishment of the parc and cottages.
     

Six Advocaten

Independent Dutch boutique, Six Advocaten, focuses on real estate, procurement, regulatory and construction law. The firm assists client drafting and evaluating contracts and in contract-related dispute resolution, such as damages, delays in construction, warranties, specification, contract variations, and execution matters. The firm has a focus on the development in logistics, infrastructure and public procurement. The practice is led by Wouter Post, who specialises in multi-function inner city real estate projects and property development.

Practice head(s):

Wouter Post


Other key lawyers:

Leon Burgersdijk; Daniël van Veen


Testimonials

‘Small company with personal good relation and practical advise. Gain to have deal and not only looking for risks, but also solutions.’

‘Wouter is a quick thinker who not only reacts to the issues at hand but also looks forward and prevents issues beforehand.’

‘It’s very helpful to have a legal advisor solely focusing on the construction topic, while bringing all specialisms within the field (e.g., construction contracting, rent contracting, administrative law, etc.). This allows for a great combination between detailed expertise at a competitive price point vs a broader firm with substantially more overhead.’

‘Leon Burgersdijk is our key contact at Six; he’s very responsive and well-informed. He is also very well aware about our specific situation and what we’re working on together. He takes initiative to align with other advisors independently to ease the burden on me and my colleagues. He proactively suggests solutions to cope with upcoming issues. Warmly recommend his support.’

‘Fine collaboration with Daniël van Veen. He is able to translate the difficult wishes of our project managers into contracts the right way.’

‘The quick and personal contact, the availability and ability to identify problems and suggest solutions.’

‘Very clear communications, willingness to explain the situation in various ways, being able to look at both sides of the situation and suggest a workable solution for both parties.’

‘The team at SIX advocaten has been very helpful. This team consists of experienced and professional lawyers. They are passionate and very knowledgeable. I am very happy with the work they have done.’ 

Key clients

Amrâth Hotels & Restaurants B.V./ De Lelie Vastgoed


AM Vastgoed B.V.


CBRE Development


Ballast Nedam Development


De Lelie Vastgoed


AM Vastgoed B.V.


Work highlights


  • Representing De Lelie Vastgoed/Amrâth Hotels & Restaurants regarding the construction of Galaxy Tower Utrecht, an inner-city development in Utrecht Jaarbeursplein.
  • Advising on the redevelopment of the Market Quarter in Amsterdam, a joint venture of Ballast Nedam Development and Volker Wessels to build a new integrated Food Market at the North side of the area, relocating over 50 market entrepreneurs, and thus freeing up space at the South side for a large new urban area, consisting of 1,500 houses, a school and leisure.
  • Assisting developer Oosterdokseiland Ontwikkeling Amsterdam C.V. with regard to the construction of the multi-functional real estate project “Oosterdokseiland” in the heart of Amsterdam, east of central station.

Van der Feltz Advocaten

Described as a ‘go-to-firm for construction, permitting and planning’, Van der Feltz Advocaten is a boutique firm based in The Hague. The firm is active in contentious and non-contentious construction matters and has specific experience in infrastructure, commercial and public real estate developments and transactions, as well as acting as co-counsel on construction, real estate, environmental and zoning law. The team is led by Marc Houweling.

Practice head(s):

Marc Houweling


Other key lawyers:

Susanne van de Pest; Brim Tonino


Testimonials

‘VDF is a go-to-firm for construction, permitting and planning. Dedicated team with relevant expertise and capability.’

‘I recommend Marc Houweling, leading the practice and Brim Tonino for construction and Suzanne van der Pest for leasing.’

‘The team pairs a thorough knowledge of construction law and all of its possibilities with a practical attitude and incentive to solve problems practically and in an amicable way. But let there be no mistake, if necessary, they are a tough opponent in litigation with a solid success rate.’

Work highlights