Hospitality and Entertainment Projects

THE MARLTON, New York

RETROFIT TEAM

HVAC SPECIALIST: Klima New York, Kennett Square, Pa.

MATERIALS

The building, which was built in 1900, had no central air-conditioning system, so Owner Sean MacPherson sought an efficient HVAC system that would not only preserve space, but also create an atmosphere for individual guest comfort. The hotel’s management settled on three criteria for the new HVAC system: The system needed to be highly economical and efficient in terms of its energy consumption; it must preserve the archi- tectural integrity and charm of the design details while maximizing the limited space available; and it had to provide superior occupant comfort.

Klima New York specified the LG Multi V IV Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) system. The Multi V system’s features, like Smart Load Control and Active Refrigerant Control, optimize energy use based on the demands of the system and account for changes in ambient temperature to regulate performance for efficiency and comfort. The LG system also allows for multiple rooms to be maintained by a single outdoor unit.

The Multi V system’s design flexibility worked with the building’s architectural features. In the guestrooms, the returns were discreetly hidden in the crown molding. In other areas, duct-free units were used to avoid covering up the Marlton’s ornate features with soffits for ductwork. Addition- ally, the design of the LG system maximized space. The Multi V systems do not require a mechanical room, which enabled the Marlton’s designers to use space downstairs, which would have served as a mechanical room, as a kitchen for the restaurant. Similarly, the compact footprint of the outdoor units combined with their quiet operation meant the outdoor units could reside on the roof while guests sunbathe, lounge and relax on the rooftop next to the units.

Lastly the zoned capabilities of the LG VRF system allow guest spaces and common areas to be independently controlled and conditioned for occupant comfort.

“I personally think the best aspect of the system is the fact that the design has been integrated with the functionality, so we didn’t lose any of the architectural integrity. We were able to preserve many of the building’s original and thoughtful design details,” explains Eric Rosenfeld, the Marlton’s general manager. “Besides space saving and design flexibility, efficiency is the best feature for the hotel,” adds James Moran, sales engineer at Klima New York. “Generally, the LG Multi V VRF system will provide a 30 to 40 percent savings over conventional air conditioning systems.* That return alone on a hotel and hospitality application represents quite a return on investment in a relatively short time.”

VRF SYSTEM MANUFACTURER: LG

*Actual energy savings may vary based on system configuration, application and environmental elements.

THE RETROFIT

A 9-story building located in the heart of Greenwich Village, the Marlton has a storied history, serving as home to some of the most famous and influential artists and writers of the modern era, such as Jack Kerouac and Neal Cassady. Purchased in 2013 by Sean MacPherson, the vision for the Marlton was that of an upscale, boutique hotel where textures and details are layered with a fastidious and eclectic eye. The design required keeping many of the building’s original features, including herringbone-wood floors, intricate crown molding, marble bathrooms and brass fixtures.

PHOTOS: LG