Projects

Boutique Hotel Project — Custom Refrigeration and Mechanical Systems

Projects overview

EcoTech delivered a full refrigeration, and mechanical systems upgrade for a confidential boutique hotel refurbishment project in Richmond, Victoria. The project featured a complete suite of custom-designed refrigeration systems, including a state-of-the-art CO₂ condensing unit, the first of its kind installed in Australia outside of prototype testing , alongside new mechanical, HVAC, and building management controls.

With sustainability, energy efficiency, and operational excellence at its core, this complex project was delivered within a live operating venue under tight site access conditions.

Project Details

Client

Boutique Hotel Project

Location

Richmond, Victoria

Scope

Custom refrigeration systems, mechanical systems, HVAC, chillers, BMS controls

Duration

6 months

Challenges

Live operating environment, tight inner-city access, heritage site conditions

Key Outcomes

First CO₂ condensing unit in Australia of its kind outside of the test unit, high-efficiency refrigeration, optimised building energy performance

Description

Refrigeration Systems Focus

Central to the project was the design and installation of fully custom refrigeration systems tailored to meet the hotel’s complex hospitality operations. EcoTech installed a high-efficiency CO₂ condensing unit, the first deployed commercially in Australia beyond testing stage, to serve a comprehensive suite of refrigeration assets.

These included a dedicated kitchen coolroom and freezer room, a remote keg room, six underbar refrigeration units over 2 floors, and a custom glass door underbar drinks fridge, all designed for optimum performance, energy savings, and reliability.

Mechanical Systems and Controls

Alongside the bespoke refrigeration solution, EcoTech delivered complete mechanical system upgrades including a new state of the art Building Management System (BMS) with autonomous control. These enhancements allowed for centralised monitoring, improved climate control, and further energy efficiency gains across the venue.

Project Delivery and Outcomes

Despite tight Richmond site access and a requirement to maintain continuous ground-floor trading operations, EcoTech successfully completed the project within a six-month timeline. The result is a venue that blends heritage charm with state-of-the-art, sustainable building technology, setting a new benchmark for hospitality energy management in Victoria.