Gallery Bouldering - Custom HVAC Solution for a High-Traffic Climbing Centre

Project Overview

• Client: Gallery Bouldering
• Location: gallerybouldering.co.uk
• Completion Date: April 2024
• Services Provided: HVAC installation, including ventilation, heating, and cooling solutions.
• Key Products: Daikin VAM heat recovery ventilation units, VRV heat pump systems, under-ceiling cassettes, and ceiling-suspended units.

Challenges

• High Occupancy and Air Quality Needs: The venue required ventilation for a peak occupancy initially designed for 200 people, later increased to 255.
• Energy Efficiency: With high foot traffic, the client wanted to minimise energy consumption while maintaining air quality.
• Layout Constraints: The space included shallow ceiling voids under the mezzanine, which limited the installation options.
• Frequent Layout Changes: During construction, layout adjustments were needed to accommodate new climbing walls, meeting rooms, and a café area.

Solution and Implementation

MGI developed a tailored HVAC system that combined flexibility, energy efficiency, and control, using Daikin’s advanced equipment:

1. Daikin VAM Heat Recovery Ventilation Units:
   • Energy Efficiency: CO2 sensor-controlled units automatically adjust ventilation based on occupancy, optimising air quality without wasting energy.
   • User Control: The system design allows specific areas to be isolated when not in use, further enhancing efficiency.
   • Capacity: Designed for a peak occupancy of 200, later modified to support 255.
2. VRV Heat Pump Air Conditioning Systems:
   • Heating and Cooling: Two VRV systems were installed to manage the heating and cooling needs across the main venue.
   • Single-Split Systems: Two additional Daikin single-split units were installed to provide independent control for the meeting rooms.
3. Customised Installation for Low Ceiling Heights:
   In areas with shallow ceiling voids, such as under the mezzanine, MGI used Daikin’s under-ceiling cassettes and ceiling-suspended units, which were recessed slightly to work within height constraints.
4. Sustainable Outdoor Unit Upgrade:
   The existing 17 external units were removed, recycled, and replaced with 5 high-efficiency Daikin units, reducing environmental impact and enhancing operational efficiency.

Outcome

Upon completion, MGI registered all ventilation and air conditioning installations with the local Building Control to ensure compliance. The Gallery Bouldering team was highly satisfied with the results, appreciating the system’s adaptability, the team’s responsiveness, and the seamless operation across multiple facility zones.

Client Testimonial

“David Sutherland from MGI made the process of setting up our HVAC easy and smooth. The environment of a climbing centre is demanding, and we combined this with an open mezzanine cafe as well as a coworking office space to add to the challenge. David was great to work with: he was adaptable and responsive, making sure everything was ready for our opening, as well as giving us full support afterwards. I have no hesitation in recommending him.”