The Chapel Bar at Theatre Severn in Shrewsbury is built directly within a historic, converted Methodist chapel that was absorbed into the venue’s modern structure.
The bar required a dedicated cooling solution for its bar servery area to improve working conditions for staff. The aim was to provide localised, controllable air conditioning for the bar servery. This would improve staff comfort and support efficient day-to-day operations.
Temporary Cooling Solution
As an immediate measure, Cool Services supplied and installed portable air conditioning units within the servery area. These units proved highly effective, providing reliable cooling for staff while a permanent solution was designed and approved.
The temporary installation enabled the theatre to benefit from improved working conditions straight away, demonstrating the effectiveness of targeted cooling within the workspace.
Permanent Air Conditioning Design
Cool Services’ air conditioning engineers installed a twin split air conditioning system to provide precise, controllable space cooling for the bar servery. The pipework was installed in accordance with the routing specification provided by the Mechanical Design Engineer at Shropshire Property Services Group.
The company also installed passive fire protection where fire compartments were penetrated as a result of the installation.
Efficient Installation with Minimal Disruption
To minimise disruption to theatre operations and the surrounding area, the outdoor condenser unit was installed on the roof using a Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP) rather than a crane. This approach reduced site disruption, avoided unnecessary road closures and allowed the installation to be completed efficiently and safely.
Sensitive Installation, Outstanding Results
Working closely with stakeholders, the team delivered a discreet installation that worked well with the building’s character.
The installation required exceptional care, with engineers carefully installing pipework without disturbing the building’s ornate cornice to preserve the integrity of the decorative ceiling.
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Reliable Long-Term Performance
The completed twin split system now delivers energy-efficient, localised cooling precisely where it is needed most. Staff working within the bar servery benefit from a comfortable and controllable environment, helping to improve workplace comfort and operational efficiency.
The result is a technically robust, energy-efficient climate control system with a manufacturers guarantee for 10 Years. The council is pleased with the performance of the new system, and the minimal visual impact on the historic interior, helping to maintain the Chapel Bar’s reputation as a welcoming venue.