Warsaw District Court

Upgrading HVAC systems in historic buildings presents a unique challenge: how to preserve architectural integrity while achieving low noise, energy efficiency, and intelligent control. Midea Building Technologies (MBT) has successfully addressed this issue with its advanced VRF system, delivering a customized solution featuring “low noise, high efficiency, and strong integration.” The project has become a benchmark for HVAC modernization in historical buildings across Europe.

Tackling the Challenges of HVAC in Historic Structures

Located in the heart of Poland’s capital, the Warsaw District Court is a landmark protected for its historical significance. The building features a complex internal structure and existing mechanical ventilation systems. Integrating a modern VRF system into such a framework required exceptional coordination in both design and construction. The building’s large scale and intricate layout also raised concerns about potential R410A refrigerant concentration exceeding safety thresholds in certain areas. To safeguard occupants, MBT installed concentration detection and alarm systems — an uncommon but critical addition in such projects.

Surrounded by office buildings, shops, and residences, the site imposed strict limitations on equipment size, operational noise, and installation logistics. “Every step — from design to execution — demanded meticulous attention,” said project design consultant Rafal Powala. “Given that court operations continued throughout construction, scheduling was also a key priority.”

An Innovative and Quiet Solution

To meet these demands, MBT demonstrated robust system integration capabilities and professional problem-solving. The project utilized 41 Midea V6 VRF outdoor units with a total cooling capacity of 2 MW, paired with approximately 650 indoor units — including four-way and one-way cassette units, as well as wall-mounted types — carefully adapted to accommodate the building’s complex interior needs.

All outdoor units were installed on the courthouse rooftop. Despite limited space and the need to coexist with other rooftop infrastructure, Midea’s compact and flexible units enabled an effective deployment strategy.

Most notably, the V6 series offers multiple silent modes that meet stringent noise control requirements, providing a low-disturbance environment for both the courthouse and its neighbors. “We were involved in the entire equipment selection and system design,” said Rafal Calka, MBT’s local partner in Poland. “The final solution achieves both high energy efficiency and low operational noise.”

Smart Integration for Smarter Buildings

To enhance system management, MBT’s solution was fully integrated into the courthouse’s Building Management System (BMS) via the BACnet protocol. This enables centralized remote monitoring, real-time performance tracking, and full lifecycle diagnostics. “This allows users to manage the system intelligently and holistically,” noted Michal Kowalski, the project’s technical service manager. “It truly makes HVAC a core component of intelligent building operations.”

Harmonizing Modern Technology with Historic Architecture

The project has received unanimous praise from designers, owners, and users. On-site staff reported a significant improvement in comfort and a nearly imperceptible noise level. Maintenance engineers confirmed that since activation, the system has operated without technical faults — requiring only routine servicing, underscoring its reliability and maturity. “Midea’s system delivers outstanding comfort with effortless intelligent control,” Calka added. “It fully meets the needs of modern architectural design and functionality.”

As a landmark project for MBT in Europe, the Warsaw District Court HVAC upgrade demonstrates the company’s strengths in system integration and the real-world application of HVAC innovation. It further showcases Midea’s adaptability and expertise in upgrading historical buildings with sustainable technology. Moving forward, MBT will continue advancing low-carbon urban transformation through green, intelligent HVAC solutions— bridging the past with the future.