Hall & Wilcox Newcastle: Delivering a High-Performance HVAC Solution for a Premium Legal Workplace

Project Overview

Builder: Shape

Client: Hall & Wilcox Lawyers

Location: 727 Hunter Street Newcastle West,  NSW, 2305 

Type of Service: Water Cooled PAC Units, Mechanical ventilation, BMS.

Completion Date: Jan 2025

Project Value: $445,000

PSB Air was engaged by Shape to deliver the mechanical services for the new Hall & Wilcox Newcastle office at 727 Hunter Street. Completed in January 2025, the project formed part of an award-winning fitout that required precise engineering, a tailored BMS solution, and HVAC systems capable of meeting strict acoustic and comfort standards.

The new workplace needed to support hybrid work patterns, focus rooms, client areas, and collaborative spaces, all while maintaining low noise levels and efficient temperature control. PSB Air designed and delivered a mechanical solution that aligned with these requirements and the overall architectural vision.

The Challenge – A Workspace with High Acoustic and Performance Standards

The Hall & Wilcox fitout wasn’t a standard office installation. The project required:

• Very low operational noise to suit private meeting rooms and legal work environments
  
• Mechanical systems that blended into a high-end interior design
  
• A custom BMS solution designed by PSB Air
  
• Water-cooled PAC units that could deliver strong performance with stable, quiet operation
  
• Mechanical ventilation that met compliance without disrupting the aesthetics of the space
• 5-Star Green Building Rating compliance, supporting lower energy use, improved occupant comfort, and long-term operational efficiency.
  

The challenge was achieving all of this while supporting an accelerated program and coordinating with multiple trades throughout the build.

The Solution – PSB Air’s Technical Approach

To meet the performance requirements and maintain the visual quality of the fitout, PSB Air delivered a mechanical solution that included:

• Custom-designed BMS integration: A full Building Management System was designed by PSB Air, enabling precise control, energy efficiency, and responsive system monitoring.
• Water-cooled PAC units for stable, quiet operation: These units were selected for their acoustic performance and reliability in a commercial office environment.
• Mechanical ventilation tailored to each zone: Ventilation was engineered to suit the varied layout, from open-plan spaces to enclosed rooms requiring consistent airflow without noise intrusion.
• Attention to acoustics: Ductwork, unit placement, and insulation were planned to meet high acoustic expectations while maintaining comfort and functionality.
• High-end fitout coordination: All mechanical works were carefully integrated to complement the design vision and premium finishes throughout the office.
  

The Results – Quiet, Efficient, Professionally Controlled Comfort

The completed mechanical system now provides:

• Consistent climate control across all areas
  
• Low acoustic impact suited to confidential legal work
  
• Efficient operation supported by a responsive BMS
  
• Long-term reliability for a high-traffic commercial workplace
  

The project also contributed to the MBA Award for the Hall & Wilcox Newcastle fitout, highlighting the quality of delivery across all disciplines.

Why This Project Matters

The Hall & Wilcox Newcastle office demonstrates PSB Air’s ability to deliver mechanical systems for high-end commercial spaces where acoustic performance, energy efficiency, and integration with architectural design are essential.

For legal, professional, and premium commercial environments, the project shows how careful engineering and coordination result in a system that supports productivity, comfort, and long-term operational value.

Planning a Commercial HVAC Upgrade?

If you’re planning an office fitout, refurbishment or commercial HVAC upgrade, our team can support your project from design through to commissioning. Get in touch to discuss your upcoming build or explore more of our recent work on the PSB Air Projects page.

FAQs

Q1. What HVAC systems were installed for the Hall & Wilcox Newcastle office?

The project used water-cooled PAC units, mechanical ventilation, and a custom BMS designed by PSB Air to suit the performance and acoustic needs of a legal workspace.

Q2. Why are water-cooled PAC units suitable for premium commercial fitouts?

They offer stable temperature control and low operational noise, making them ideal for offices where quiet, consistent comfort is essential.

Q3. How does the BMS improve system performance?

The PSB Air-designed BMS provides precise control, better energy management, and real-time monitoring across the entire mechanical system.

Q4. How were acoustic requirements addressed in this project?

Unit selection, duct design, insulation, and equipment placement were planned specifically to minimise noise and maintain confidentiality within meeting rooms and shared spaces.

Q5. Does this project reflect PSB Air’s experience with commercial air conditioning installation Sydney and regional NSW?

Yes. PSB Air delivers commercial HVAC projects across Sydney, the North Shore, the Northern Beaches and regional NSW, including high-spec fitouts like Hall & Wilcox Newcastle.

Q6. Can PSB Air support mechanical installation in other high-end office projects?

Absolutely. PSB Air provides commercial air conditioning installation services for legal, corporate, education, and government buildings, with solutions tailored to layout, acoustic needs, and long-term efficiency.

Q7. What does a 5-Star Green Building Rating mean for an office fitout?

A 5-Star Green Building Rating reflects strong performance in energy efficiency, environmental impact, and occupant comfort. For commercial offices, this can translate to lower running costs, better indoor environmental quality, and a more sustainable workplace over the long term.