Mechanical systems engineered for comfort, performance, and efficiency.
Overview
Mechanical engineering delivers thermal comfort, ventilation, and air quality through designed HVAC systems. These systems manage temperature, humidity, fresh air delivery, and extraction of contaminants, and they are central to occupant health and comfort in offices, healthcare, laboratories, and industrial spaces.
At BSE, we begin mechanical design with an understanding of the architecture, climate, and intended use. Early-stage modelling identifies heating and cooling loads and informs plant selection, zoning strategies, and distribution systems. We design solutions ranging from central chilled water plants to packaged systems, with consideration given to filtration, humidity control, and local extract where required. Controls are integral: we develop building management strategies and zoning approaches that support comfort, performance, and energy efficiency. Plant location, duct routing, and serviceability are coordinated with architecture and structure so systems are accessible without compromising design intent. Where sustainability is a priority, we assess opportunities for energy recovery, efficient plant operation, and integration with passive measures such as shading and natural ventilation.
Clients receive mechanical systems that deliver reliable comfort, good indoor air quality, and efficient operation. Our designs are maintainable, code-compliant, and future-ready, with clear documentation and support through construction and commissioning. We coordinate closely with electrical and hydraulic engineers to ensure plant sizing, power supply, and water systems align so the installed outcome performs as intended.
01
As part of IKEA’s global commitment to reduce energy consumption across its retail portfolio, BSE was engaged to design the mechanical services for the IKEA Logan store in Queensland. The project targeted a 25% reduction in overall energy use compared with a conventional IKEA store, with a particular focus on reducing air‑conditioning demand in a large, high‑volume retail environment.
02
BSE was responsible for the full design of the store’s mechanical services, including air‑conditioning, ventilation, and central plant systems. The scope required delivery of a compliant, buildable solution capable of achieving IKEA’s energy performance objectives while integrating effectively within the architectural and structural constraints of the building.
03
The IKEA Logan store presented challenges uncommon in typical commercial buildings, including large open floor plates, high ceilings, extended operating hours, and substantial cooling loads. Peak electrical demand within the rapidly growing Logan region also placed constraints on available infrastructure, requiring careful management of system efficiency and load timing.
04
To address these challenges, BSE implemented a combination of strategies including passive chilled beams supplied with high‑temperature chilled water, chilled water storage to enable off‑peak operation, high‑efficiency water‑cooled chillers with oil‑free compressors, economy‑cycle operation on air‑handling units, pre‑cooling of outside air, and enhanced sealing of the building fabric. These measures were designed to operate as an integrated system to reduce energy consumption while maintaining comfort and operational practicality.
05
Post‑occupancy monitoring demonstrated a significant reduction in energy use compared with other Australian IKEA stores. When standardised by floor area, the Logan store achieved lower energy consumption while meeting thermal comfort and operational requirements, enabling IKEA to achieve its target of an equivalent 25% reduction in overall energy usage.
The project received the AIRAH Excellence Award in Sustainability and the Queensland Government Industrial Eco‑Efficiency Award, recognising the effectiveness of the integrated mechanical design approach.
This project demonstrates BSE’s capability to deliver high‑performance mechanical systems that balance energy efficiency, operational practicality, and large‑scale retail requirements.
This case study draws on content originally published in Ecolibrium Magazine, the official journal of the Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating (AIRAH).
Images courtesy of Ecolibrium Magazine.
Projects
