Live folding-wall pages mention HVAC coordination in a short line. This article expands that into an MEP interface worksheet for open-wall and closed-wall restaurant operation.
Two operating modes, one dining room
Closed-wall mode is a conditioned envelope with operable joints sealed. Open-wall mode is closer to a covered patio with indoor equipment still running nearby. Humidity, grease exhaust, and guest comfort change between those modes. Design the controls conversation around both, not only peak summer closed-wall load.
What the MEP designer needs
- Which openings operate, how often, and for how long during service
- Whether staff can leave walls partially open
- Zoning map: dining, bar, kitchen, vestibule
- Door / wall status intent if any sensors are proposed (optional; not mandated here)
- Kitchen exhaust and makeup-air assumptions when the dining wall is open
Glazing contractors can describe how the wall opens. They do not design the HVAC system. Keep roles clear.
Interface points (process)
- Architect marks operable opening marks and stacking on plans.
- Owner states expected open-wall hours and seasons.
- MEP proposes zoning and control strategy for open vs closed.
- GC coordinates rough-in if any wall-position sensors or operators need power/low-voltage.
- Glazing sub provides shop drawings showing panel motion so sensor placement (if used) does not conflict with tracks.
Open / closed wall worksheet
TEMPLATE ONLY. MEP interface worksheet. Not a universal interlock design.
| Topic | Closed-wall | Open-wall |
|---|---|---|
| Owner hours / season note | _______ | _______ |
| Zones affected | _______ | _______ |
| Kitchen exhaust interaction | MEP note | MEP note |
| Partial-open allowed? | N/A | Y / N / staff rule |
| Any wall-status sensor? | Y / N | Y / N |
| Power / LV rough-in owner | _______ | _______ |
| Commissioning note | _______ | _______ |
What not to prescribe here
- No universal requirement that walls must interlock with HVAC
- No setpoints, CFM values, or equipment schedules
- No claim that opening the wall always saves energy or always wastes energy
How to ask for the right scope
Send elevations, the opening schedule, and a one-page owner note on expected open-wall hours. Ask MEP and glazing to meet once before shops. Mark material-only or furnish-and-install for the glazing package.
ACG works from West Palm Beach, Naples, and Tampa. Call (772) 486-7711. FL CGC #1531993.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do operable glass walls require HVAC interlocks?
Not universally. Some projects use wall-status inputs; many rely on staff procedures and zoning design. The MEP engineer decides. This article does not prescribe interlocks.
Who designs the open-wall HVAC mode?
The MEP designer, using owner operating assumptions and architect opening marks. The glazing sub coordinates motion and any rough-in that touches the wall.
Can ACG provide CFM or setpoints?
No. Those belong in the engineered HVAC documents.
What should I send?
Elevations, opening schedule, open-wall operating notes, and material-only vs furnish-and-install.