As interior design trends continue to evolve, embracing more ambitious, modern and aesthetically driven concepts, the demand for HVAC systems that seamlessly integrate into these spaces has intensified, according to Pravin Rawool, AVP & Head: MEP and Internal Services, a part of Godrej Enterprises Group. “We recognise the importance of combining functionality with design excellence.”Atul Malik, National Head, MEP and O&M, Sterling & Wilson, agrees, saying that as interior designers become more ambitious about the look and finish they aim to achieve, innovative ways to conceal HVAC components such as ducting, piping, cabling, ceiling-mounted units and so on are assuming greater importance.As Dikshu Kukreja, Managing Principal, CP Kukreja Architects, puts it, “Concealing the visible components of an HVAC system is vital to enhance inner aesthetics.”And Suhas D Randive, MEP Consultant, Design Engineers, is of the view that such concealment is becoming more essential as homes and office spaces become more open, minimalistic, technologically advanced and compact.False ceilingsAny HVAC design, especially the concealment of components, must take into consideration local building codes and standards, fire regulations and good engineering practices guiding the practical operations of the system, advises Malik.Innovation and a keen eye for detail are also critical to integrate HVAC components into a space’s design narrative, believes Harkaran Singh Boparai, Founder and Principal Architect, Harkaran Boparai Studio.So, how can HVAC components be concealed?Flat false ceilings are a common way to conceal HVAC components as well as to install decorative lights, responds Malik. “A false ceiling can be designed to hide ducts, and contain air vents and lighting fixtures,” explains Randive. “The ductwork is routed above the ceiling or within custom cabinetry to minimise the visible infrastructure. When chilled beams are embedded in false ceilings or drywall (a finish to match the interiors), they become nearly invisible while maintaining energy-efficient operations.”Where areas are planned without a false ceiling. Malik proposes using round or oval ducts.Custom cabinetryDecorative enclosures that double as furniture or design elements, such as wood-panelled vent covers, custom cabinets, artistic grilles or custom laser-cut metal screens that align with the room’s design them, are a good way to contain and conceal HVAC components, says Ajit Panicker, CEO, Nova HVAC Systems; Founder, Pureblu Technologies; and Immediate Past President, RATA. “High-resolution prints or functional art can conceal components. Linear slot diffusers that seamlessly integrate into ceilings or walls are minimalistic and aesthetically pleasing. Advanced options allow paintable finishes or integration with lighting.”Boparai suggests using multifunctional architectural features such as ceiling coves, floating panels or custom cabinetry to house HVAC systems. “These elements mask the technical infrastructure and contribute to the overall spatial experience. Incorporating linear diffusers or hidden vents into the geometry of a space, using clean lines and finishes that blend harmoniously with the design palette, helps conceal the nitty-gritty of the HVAC system.”Options to conceal grilles with no loss of airflow include bookshelves, cabinets and under-seating areas, lists Randive.At One Villa, Boparai used a lot of concealed systems integrated with the overall design to ensure the Daikin HVAC’s automation, lighting and ambient controls stayed out of sight yet remained an essentiality in the overall experience.Duct concealersDuct systems are best concealed by being incorporated within architectural features like coffered ceilings or bulkheads, says Panicker. “Hidden air returns can be integrated into walls or cabinetry.”In malls, airports and metro stations, Malik points out that vertical enclosures akin to closets are used to conceal the ductwork for the supply of air-conditioned air.Another option is to conceal air ducts beneath a raised floor, says Randive. “The grill openings are discreet and can be custom-designed to blend with the floor finish.”Malik suggests using soffits, enclosed structures situated under the roof overhang, to conceal wiring, pipes, ducting, etc. Randive suggests hiding hi-wall units within ceiling spaces or walls using custom-built enclosures, with the refrigerant lines running behind walls, reducing visible components. “Air-handling units/ductables can be cleverly hidden within the structure of staircases, basements or walls, utilising space that might otherwise go unused, especially in multistorey buildings.”Outdoor maskingArchitectural louvered panels are an attractive way to conceal HVAC outdoor units placed in the exterior walls, and they can be customised to fit the interior design of a wall, suggests Randive. “Panels with adjustable louvers give users both aesthetic appeal and functional control over ventilation.”Even on terraces, Malik says parts like cooling towers and outdoor units can be camouflaged by installing a louvered curtain wall or decorative RCC grilles around the unit, or by installing frames with vertical planters to look like a green wall. For the sake of safety, sufficient space must be left for the airflow.Material optionsBoparai suggests selecting materials and finishes that complement the surrounding architecture, such as perforated panels, textured grilles or acoustic wall treatments that double as ventilation systems. Such solutions show how technology can be beautifully integrated into interiors.“One of the exhibition halls of the first phase of the Yashobhoomi mixed-use urban development project in Dwarka, New Delhi, uses tensile material both for aesthetic purposes to conceal the HVAC components as well and to enhance the acoustics,” explains Kukreja, project architect in collaboration with IDOM, Spain. Yashobhoomi has a central AC plant with high-efficiency, water-cooled centrifugal chilling machines and CTI-certified cooling towers. AHRI and Eurovent-certified heat pumps provide optimal winter heating, while advanced air purification systems enhance indoor air quality. Fresh air management is ensured through total fresh air units with energy recovery wheels for pre-cooling, while air-handling units feature energy-saving devices.One of the simplest ways to hide unsightly components is to paint the roof and services like ducts, pipes and indoor units in the same colour for a blended look, shares Malik. Otherwise, simply cover air outlets.What’s missing While advancements have enabled smaller and quieter HVAC units, the integration process still relies heavily on bespoke solutions, according to Boparai. So, the industry would benefit greatly from modular, customisable vent and diffuser systems that can seamlessly blend with diverse material palettes and styles. “While the HVAC industry has made strides, there is a noticeable gap in customisable and modular solutions that can be easily adapted for different space types or aesthetic requirements,” adds Rawool.More modular systems that can be adapted to unique interior layouts are needed, especially for retrofitting in older buildings, agrees Panicker. “We also need systems with even lower profiles [than available] for contemporary designs with open spaces and minimal bulkheads in ceilings with limited depth.”As HVAC systems often clash with the overall aesthetic of a room or building owing to their size and visible components, especially air handlers, ducts and grilles, Randive would like the industry to emphasise on more design-oriented HVAC components that can seamlessly blend into the architecture. “HVAC units that can be camouflaged as architectural elements [part of a wall, ceiling, or furniture] or feature customisable finishes and designs would help eliminate the visual disruption and integrate the system into the design.”Also, compact units that can fit into smaller, more constrained spaces would be easier to hide in custom furniture or integrated within the building structure, adds Randive.According to Malik, the HVAC market could do with attractive ductable indoor units and rectangular-shaped flexible connections (round flexible connections are available) for ducts and attractive corner grille outlets to suit the choice of designers.Panicker points out that while concealment focuses on visuals, noise often disrupts the design intent. Quieter components and better acoustic integration are required. Coming to materials, he says lightweight, durable, and design-friendly options for ducting and grilles are underexplored, and aesthetic options that use sustainable or recycled materials, aligning with growing environmental concerns, are missing.Thermostat advancementsTraditional thermostats are often bulky and visible, but newer models are sleek and minimalistic, says Randive, and these blend better with designs. Some are flush-mounted on the wall with a clean, unobtrusive interface.According to Boparai, advancements in wireless and app-based controls could eliminate the need for wall-mounted thermostats altogether, allowing designers greater freedom in maintaining clean, uninterrupted surfaces.Panicker points out that smart thermostats and sensors aid the concept of concealment by reducing the need for visible components, allowing the designer to focus on concealed access points.Concealment challengesBalancing the energy-efficiency, aesthetics and functionality of the HVAC system while maintaining a comfortable indoor environment is challenging, says Rawool. In a commercial office space project, his team achieved a harmonious blend of form and function with various elements like exposed ductwork with custom-designed perforated metal jacket to add a chic touch, recessed VAVs and decorative air intake grilles to match the office architectural style concealing the HVAC system’s air intake points. The process, he explains, includes “value engineering using digital tools and HVAC software to peer review the design before it is implemented. Prioritising both energy-efficiency and visual appeal, our team created a comfortable, productive and visually appealing indoor office environment.”In conclusion, Rawool says innovative technologies such as concealed air-handling units, ductless systems, EC fans and smart HVAC controls are revolutionising how HVAC systems are integrated within interiors. Systems like ducted ceiling air distribution, which hides ducts behind false ceilings, and linear diffusers, which blend seamlessly with the design elements of walls and ceilings, are gaining popularity. On the high side, we see district cooling, thermal storage, displacement ventilation and chilled beam systems becoming a trend. Overall, the growing trend is to have energy-efficient, eco-friendly HVAC systems without compromising on performance, offering both visual appeal and efficient air distribution. Quotes:More modular systems that can be adapted to unique interior layouts are needed.- Ajit Panicker, CEO, Nova HVAC Systems; Founder, Pureblu Technologies; and Immediate Past President, RATAArchitectural louvered panels are an attractive way to conceal HVAC outdoor units placed in exterior walls.- Suhas D Randive, MEP Consultant, Design EngineersConcealing the visible components of an HVAC system is vital to enhance the inner aesthetics.- Dikshu Kukreja, Managing Principal, CP Kukreja ArchitectsThe concealment of components must consider local building codes and standards, fire regulations and good engineering practices.- Atul Malik, National Head, MEP and O&M, Sterling & WilsonUse multifunctional architectural features such as ceiling coves, floating panels or custom cabinetry to house HVAC systems.- Harkaran Singh Boparai, Founder and Principal Architect, Harkaran Boparai StudioSystems like ducted ceiling air distribution and linear diffusers are gaining popularity.- Pravin Rawool, AVP & Head: MEP and Internal Services, a part of Godrej Enterprises Group