Why Architects Should Involve MVHR and Air Conditioning Specialists Before Stage 3

Too many MVHR and air conditioning systems are treated as afterthoughts in the design process. The result? Compromised layouts, retrofit headaches, and costly redesigns at Stage 4 or later.

Architects working across Hampshire, Berkshire, and Surrey are increasingly discovering the value of involving specialists before RIBA Stage 3. Early coordination ensures systems are integrated properly—not patched in later.

At ClimateWorks, we support architects from Stage 2 onward to deliver seamless, compliant ventilation and air conditioning installations.

Here’s why bringing us in early avoids problems later.

Problems caused by late-stage coordination

When ventilation and cooling are left too late, you end up with:

• Duct runs that clash with beams or downstands
• Grilles that conflict with lighting or interior features
• Plant areas that don’t meet noise or planning rules
• Limited space for pipework and drainage
• Access panels in awkward or visible positions
• Systems that underperform or breach regulations

We’ve been called in to fix these issues across towns like Farnham, Reading, and Winchester—often at a much higher cost than if we’d been involved from the outset.

What early input allows us to do

When you involve us before Stage 3, we can:

• Confirm unit sizes, duct diameters, and route requirements
• Advise on ceiling void depths and service zone needs
• Coordinate with electrical, plumbing, and structural designs
• Identify ideal plant locations for access and noise control
• Ensure grille layouts align with interior and lighting design
• Flag regulatory requirements that affect layout or structure

This applies whether you’re designing a new build in Alton, converting a barn near Petersfield, or extending a period property in Godalming.

Real project examples from the South East

Winchester – New-build with vaulted ceilings

We were brought in at concept stage to plan discreet MVHR ducting within feature roof spaces. Working with the architect, we avoided exposed ductwork by rerouting above hallway bulkheads. Grilles were integrated into timber finishes.

Wokingham – High-end residential renovation

The architect planned slim recessed lighting and bespoke ceiling details. By reviewing these at Stage 2, we adjusted the ducting profile and grille locations to avoid conflicts—ensuring a clean finish with no design compromise.

Reading – Mixed-use development

With commercial and residential zones on different floors, we designed zoned VRF and MVHR systems that shared risers and external plant space. Our early input ensured compliance with SAP, TM59, and local planning constraints.

Avoiding rework, saving time

Bringing ClimateWorks in before Stage 3 saves you:

• Redraws to accommodate late system changes
• Programme delays caused by clashes during install
• Complaints from clients about visible services
• Extra costs from out-of-sequence work
• Post-handover issues requiring remedial works

This is especially important in projects where layout, acoustics, or aesthetics are key selling points.

Supporting RIBA stages with clear deliverables

We support your design process with input tailored to each stage:

• Stage 2: System concept and plant space requirements
• Stage 3: Duct routing and grille location diagrams
• Stage 4: Final system specification and coordination with all services
• Construction: Site support, installation, and commissioning to programme

Everything we provide is coordinated, documented, and ready for inclusion in tender and build packs.

Why this matters more now than ever

Homes and commercial spaces are being built tighter, more acoustically sensitive, and more reliant on mechanical systems.

Regulations like Part F, Part L, and TM59 are stricter. Clients expect silent systems, invisible services, and high energy performance.

These goals can’t be met without early planning. Leaving ventilation and cooling design to the last minute puts the whole scheme at risk.

What architects gain from early coordination

Involving us early helps you:

• Avoid redesigns after planning
• Deliver cleaner, more integrated layouts
• Reduce construction risk and install time
• Maintain design intent without compromise
• Meet regulatory requirements with less effort
• Improve project outcomes and client satisfaction

Architects in Basingstoke, Bracknell, Guildford, and beyond rely on our early-stage input to deliver projects that perform—and impress.

Plan ahead. Avoid problems. Deliver better projects.

If you're an architect working on homes, commercial buildings, or mixed-use projects across Hampshire, Berkshire, or Surrey, bring ClimateWorks in at Stage 2 or early Stage 3.

We’ll help you:

• Plan duct routes, plant space, and terminal locations
• Keep layouts clean and compliant
• Coordinate with all other trades and consultants
• Deliver results that match your drawings and your vision

Let’s get it right before it gets expensive.

About the author

Dr. Julian Carter
Thermal Systems Expert and Technical Advisor at ClimateWorks

Dr. Julian Carter is a highly experienced thermal systems expert with over 15 years in the field, holding a PhD in thermal systems. His career spans academic research, consulting, and teaching, focusing on air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Dr. Carter bridges the gap between theoretical advancements and practical applications, providing expert insights to organisations like ClimateWorks, where his guidance informs decision-making and industry best practices. Notably, he has worked on international projects with organisations such as Daikin Industries, the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Currently a lecturer at Edinburgh University, Dr. Carter combines his expertise with a passion for educating the next generation of engineers and advancing climate control technologies.

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