In the Air - HRAI Industry News

Architects and builders are being asked to deliver more within the same footprint. Higher construction costs, tighter lot sizes, and continued demand for multifamily housing are pushing project teams to rethink how space is allocated. This shift has driven the development of more flexible HVAC system platforms, including Midea’s EVOX lineup — recognized by HRAI as an example of space-efficient HVAC design for multifamily projects. 

HVAC design now influences how units are laid out and how projects perform financially.  

Designing for Space Efficiency 

Space efficiency is now a primary consideration across multifamily new construction and retrofit projects. Architects and builders are placing greater emphasis on HVAC integration within the building envelope. Systems with smaller footprints that maintain performance are gaining attention. Within platforms like EVOX, this includes a mix of ducted, ductless, and ceiling-mounted compact air handling solutions. 

Rethinking the Mechanical Closet 

Mechanical closets occupy floor area that could otherwise support living space or more storage. Ceiling-mounted air handling systems offer an alternative. By relocating equipment into the ceiling cavity, project teams can reclaim floor space while maintaining performance. Within these platforms, the inverter-driven Pancake Air Handling Unit (AHU) is one example — a ceiling-mounted system available in 18K, 24K, 30K, and 36K BTU configurations that eliminates the need for a dedicated mechanical closet. It is designed to integrate with existing ductwork and controls, avoiding major structural or electrical modifications.  

Designing Within Real-World Constraints 

Projects frequently involve limited ceiling plenum space, existing ductwork, and legacy control systems. Redesigning around these constraints can add cost and delay. HVAC systems that adapt to these conditions simplify installation. 

Key considerations include compact equipment profiles, compatibility with standard 24V controls, and sufficient static pressure to support existing duct layouts. Platforms that support both traditional 24V and advanced communication protocols allow builders to integrate new equipment without overhauling existing infrastructure. compatibility — features designed to reduce electrical infrastructure requirements in both new construction and renovation projects. 

Maintaining Performance and Comfort 

Reducing HVAC footprint does not sacrifice performance. Modern heat pumps can deliver reliable heating and cooling across a range of climate conditions and building types – and they’re being designed with smaller footprints and greater flexibility. One such product maintains up to 100% heating output at -4°F (-20°C) and continuous operation down to -22°F (-30°C) — performance that extends reliable comfort into cold-climate multifamily applications. 

Inverter-driven heat pumps adjust output in real time to match demand. This improves temperature stability and overall comfort compared to fixed-speed systems. Quiet operation and concealed installation further enhance the occupant experience. These design advantages can also support unit marketability by reducing the visibility of mechanical equipment. 

For builders and developers, high-efficiency systems may also align with federal, state, and utility rebate programs. 

Integrating HVAC Earlier in Design 

HVAC systems are increasingly considered earlier in the design process, alongside architectural and structural decisions. 

Solutions which include ducted systems, ductless options, and compact air handling units, reflect this shift. Within EVOX, the new ceiling-mounted Pancake AHU serves as a low-profile option for multifamily projects where traditional floor-mounted equipment is not practical. Its low-profile, ceiling-mounted configuration supports space optimization while maintaining compatibility with existing systems — with high CFM output up to 899 CFM supporting longer duct runs and complex layouts common in multifamily buildings.  

For architects and builders, early coordination helps reduce downstream changes. As projects become more space-constrained, that integration will play a larger role in multifamily design and tenant satisfaction. Systems with multiple configurations will become increasingly important for multifamily projects.