A specialized design-and-build project for the HVAC and commercial kitchen ventilation systems at a new, high-volume OPTP flagship restaurant. The project's critical goal was to engineer a perfectly balanced environment that effectively manages the intense heat and fumes from a large bank of fryers and grills, while ensuring a cool, fresh, and comfortable dining experience for customers.
Client
OPTP (One Potato Two Potato)
Location
Karachi, Pakistan
Year
2024
A Complex Engineering Puzzle
The core challenge for an OPTP outlet is the massive heat and grease-laden vapor generated by their signature fryers. This requires an exceptionally powerful and safe kitchen exhaust system. The system must be perfectly balanced with the dining area's comfort cooling to prevent negative pressure, which can cause doors to be difficult to open, pull in outside dust and heat, and allow cooking odors to escape into the customer space.
Innovative & Efficient
We implemented a robust, two-part solution. For the kitchen, we installed a custom-engineered, high-velocity exhaust hood compliant with NFPA 96, featuring an integrated fire suppression system. This was paired with a dedicated Makeup Air Unit (MAU) that replaces 100% of the exhausted air with fresh, filtered air. For the dining area, we deployed a high-efficiency VRF system, providing quiet, zoned cooling. The two systems were interlocked and meticulously balanced to maintain a slight positive pressure in the dining area, creating an 'air curtain' that permanently keeps kitchen odors out and customer comfort in.
Key Project Outcomes
Completely eliminated cooking odor migration into the dining area, significantly enhancing the customer experience.
Maintained a consistent and comfortable dining room temperature of 22°C, irrespective of kitchen load or outdoor heat.
Achieved 100% compliance with international standards (NFPA 96) for commercial kitchen safety and fire prevention.
Improved kitchen air quality and temperature, creating a safer and more productive environment for staff.
“Our fries are famous, but their smell belongs in the kitchen. Their team engineered a system that perfectly isolates our heavy-duty cooking operations while keeping our dining area cool and fresh. It's a game-changer for customer comfort and kitchen safety. A truly professional execution.”
Project Gallery
