Motel Conversion to Multi Family​

Through MVN’s technical expertise and dedication to performance-driven design, this motel conversion project transformed existing guest rooms into modern studio apartments, equipped with mechanical and electrical systems that elevate functionality into a seamless backbone of residential comfort, efficiency, and long-term sustainability. The result is a living environment that supports privacy, convenience, and operational resilience while maintaining the architectural character of the original facility.

Mechanical Design

The mechanical design utilized new PTAC units, replacing similar existing systems to provide efficient, localized heating and cooling for each studio apartment. Outside air was introduced through a dedicated DOAS unit, ensuring proper ventilation and compliance with indoor air quality standards. Special domestic kitchen exhaust systems were integrated into each unit, designed to effectively manage cooking byproducts while maintaining quiet operation and energy efficiency. The overall system design balanced individual unit autonomy with centralized ventilation strategies, ensuring comfort, safety, and long-term maintainability for residents.

Electrical Design

The electrical design leveraged existing infrastructure where feasible, while upgrading distribution to meet the demands of modern residential living. New lighting systems were implemented throughout, supported by photometric calculations for both normal and emergency conditions to ensure safety and visual comfort. Code-compliant lighting controls were integrated to meet energy standards, while new outlets were installed to support kitchen appliances, HVAC units, and resident technology needs. Reliable power connections were coordinated for PTAC units, DOAS equipment, and kitchen exhaust systems, ensuring seamless integration of mechanical and electrical systems.

The mechanical systems were tailored to the building’s mixed‑use operations. Key design elements include:

  • First‑floor kitchen exhaust terminated with a wall‑mounted blast fan, supported by a makeup air unit located outside the building.
  • First‑floor retail space served by a fan coil unit paired with a gas‑fired furnace.
  • Second‑floor retail tenant similarly equipped with a dedicated fan coil and furnace system.
  • Each dwelling unit on upper levels provided with its own fan coil unit for independent comfort control.
  • Condensing units strategically located at grade level outside the building for efficient operation and service accessibility.

Electrical systems were designed to meet the varied needs of restaurant, retail, and residential spaces. Key highlights:

  • Existing services leveraged with new panels provided as required to support tenant improvements.
  • Kitchen areas on the first level equipped with GFI outlets for safety compliance.
  • Retail and dwelling units fitted with outlets in full compliance with code.
  • Lighting design incorporated aesthetic round fixtures, coordinated with the architect’s reflected ceiling plan (RCP).
  • Lighting ensures both functionality and visual appeal across all restaurant, retail, and residential spaces.

Project Details

Total Area Per Site

36,000 sq. ft​

Location

Los Angeles, California, USA​

Duration

6.0 Weeks​

Software

Revit. Energy Pro, Visual​

Scope of Work

Mechanical, Electrical

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