Park Lane Hotel

RCDC were appointed at RIBA Stage 4 to deliver full MEP and sustainability design for a mixed refurbishment and new-build 3-storey hotel, part of the Zedwell group. The project includes complex retrofit works alongside new-build elements, with the ground floor targeted to open by September 2025.

Key sustainability improvements include the removal of gas boilers in favour of air source heat pumps (ASHPs), contributing to a 49% reduction in carbon emissions. A mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery (MVHR) was also integrated to improve energy efficiency and indoor air quality.

A critical aspect of the project was the design of a smoke extract ventilation system for the basement. This involved calculating and dividing the space into multiple smoke extract zones, supported by dedicated fans and AHU bypass systems to ensure effective fire safety response in case of smoke events.

The central London site presented logistical challenges, particularly around exhausting air in a high-pollution environment. These were addressed through careful coordination of discharge points and ventilation strategies to minimise environmental and operational impact.