Capital success! How AVT’s bespoke ventilation system delivered fresh air to a London icon

Air Vent Technology worked closely with Airflow Design Services Ltd to create and supply a fully customised air-handling unit (AHU), ensuring optimal ventilation for a busy food hall in one of London’s most popular shopping centres.

Challenge
To ensure ongoing fresh air supply, the food hall at Brent Cross Shopping Centre needed a new air handling unit (AHU). An efficient extraction system for the main cooking areas was also needed. However, both elements of the project had specific technical and logistical demands. They included:

• The AHU and extract fans had to be roof-mounted, requiring a fully weatherproof construction.
• The overall project had already been in discussion for two years, undergoing several design revisions to ensure optimal performance.
• The airflow requirements had to be fine-tuned through several iterations until all parties were satisfied with the final results.

With the food hall in regular use, disruption during the installation process also had to be minimised.

Solution
AVT was initially specified as a preferred supplier during early consultations. However, as the project evolved and the design was adjusted, our role become more critical. Through extensive telephone discussions with Airflow Design Services, our team fine-tuned the AHU design to match the final airflow requirements.

Our solution included:

• A bespoke AHU featuring a two-stage filtration system and a DX reverse cycle coil for efficient climate control.
• Two bifurcated extract fans, selected from our standard range tailored for the hospitality industry.
• A full controls package to integrate and operate all units seamlessly.

AVT’s team had previously undertaken refurbishment work at Brent Cross Shopping Centre, giving us first-hand knowledge of the building layout and eliminating the need for site visits. All designs were completed remotely.

Results
AVT successfully delivered a fully customised ventilation solution that met all technical and operational requirements. The AHU and extract fans were installed as planned, providing efficient and reliable airflow to Brent Cross Shopping Centre’s food hall with minimal disruption to either customers or resident businesses.

Airflow Design Services was highly satisfied with AVT’s adaptability and expertise, reinforcing its trust in our ability to deliver bespoke ventilation solutions for complex commercial environments.