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Air Control were appointed by IDC Electrical & Mechanical Engineering, one of our largest and longest-standing clients, to deliver the air-conditioning installation as part of the construction of the new Russell Music Centre at Peter Symonds College.
As a state-of-the-art facility designed to support rehearsing, performing, and learning, the Russell Music Centre features bespoke studio spaces, professional recording rooms, and a breath-taking recital hall. The challenge was to provide a flexible, high-performance air-conditioning system capable of meeting varying thermal demands, while operating quietly and seamlessly within acoustically sensitive environments.
The project required close coordination with the main M&E contractor and other trades to ensure the air-conditioning system integrated perfectly with the building’s overall mechanical services strategy.
The air-conditioning system needed to deliver precise temperature control across a range of specialist spaces, including teaching rooms, rehearsal studios, recording areas, and performance spaces. Acoustic performance was critical, with low noise levels essential to avoid interference during rehearsals and recordings.
The system also had to integrate with the main air-handling unit (AHU) serving the building, while allowing centralised monitoring and control of the entire installation. Reliability, energy efficiency, and long-term maintainability were key considerations for an educational facility of this nature.
Under the direction of Sam Tolliday, Director of Air Control, our team installed a Mitsubishi Electric City Multi VRF system, incorporating a mix of concealed ducted fan coil units to serve the various rooms within the music centre. The ducted configuration ensured discreet installation and minimal visual impact, while providing even air distribution and quiet operation throughout the building.
In addition, a DX coil was installed and connected to the main AHU, allowing the City Multi system to integrate seamlessly with the building’s ventilation strategy. This ensured consistent temperature control and comfort across all occupied spaces.
The entire system is centrally controlled via a Mitsubishi Electric AG200 touchscreen controller, providing intuitive system management, monitoring, and zoning control. This allows facilities staff to efficiently manage the internal environment while maintaining energy efficiency and operational flexibility.
The project was delivered in close collaboration with IDC Electrical & Mechanical Engineering, ensuring programme requirements were met and the installation aligned with the overall M&E design. Sam Tolliday personally oversaw the project, coordinating the Air Control team and liaising with the main contractor to ensure smooth delivery. The completed system supports the Russell Music Centre’s world-class facilities, providing a comfortable, controlled environment for students, staff, and performers alike.
“Air Control were appointed to deliver the air-conditioning package at the new Russell Music Centre at Peter Symonds College, and once again they proved to be a reliable and highly competent specialist contractor. The project involved acoustically sensitive spaces, integration with the main AHU, and close coordination with multiple trades, all of which were handled professionally from start to finish. Sam Tolliday personally oversaw the project, ensuring the Air Control team delivered the installation to the highest standard. The Mitsubishi Electric City Multi system was installed efficiently, the programme was met, and communication throughout the project was excellent. We have worked with Air Control on many projects over the years and continue to value their technical expertise, quality of workmanship, and collaborative approach. We would not hesitate to recommend them and look forward to working together on future schemes.”
