Why The Unico System Is a Smart Choice for Multi-Family Projects

August 12, 2025

When it comes to designing HVAC systems for multi-family buildings, developers and mechanical contractors face a familiar set of challenges: space constraints, preservation of architectural aesthetics, energy efficiency demands, and the need for quiet comfort. The Unico System was engineered to meet exactly these kinds of challenges-and it’s already proving its value in high-end multi-family projects across the country.

Two standout examples-the Lucas Condos in Boston, MA and the Vue Newport Marina Condos in Newport Beach, CA-showcase how The Unico System can help architects, engineers, and developers deliver superior comfort without compromising design.

Lucas Condos, Boston MA: A Church Transformed

The Lucas Condos is a luxury residence located in Boston’s South End, housed in the restored shell of the 1874 German Trinity Catholic Church. The project presented a unique HVAC challenge: how to preserve the soaring ceilings, stained glass windows, and original masonry while adding modern heating and cooling to each unit.

The solution? The Unico System.

Our small-duct, high-velocity design allowed the project team to run HVAC supply tubing through existing wall cavities and structural voids-no soffits, no bulkheads, no design sacrifices. Each unit in the Lucas Condos features discreet outlets and a nearly invisible HVAC footprint, maintaining the architectural beauty of the historic church while providing residents with modern, efficient comfort.

Vue Newport Marina Condos, Newport Beach, CA: Waterfront Luxury Meets Performance

In Newport Beach, the Vue Newport Marina Condos brought luxury living to the Pacific Ocean waterfront. For this sleek, modern development, performance, efficiency, and aesthetics were key. With space at a premium and open-concept layouts a top priority, traditional ducted HVAC systems were off the table.

Thanks to the compact footprint of The Unico System’s air handler and flexible tubing, the mechanical contractor was able to install systems in tight spaces, such as closets or utility areas, without impacting ceilings heights or floorplans. The end result was a high-performing HVAC system that blends seamlessly into the design of each unit-delivering quiet, draft-free comfort year-round.

Thanks to the compact footprint of The Unico System’s air handler and flexible tubing, the mechanical contractor was able to install systems in tight spaces, such as closets or utility

areas, without impacting ceiling heights or floorplans. The end result was a high-performance HVAC system that blends seamlessly into the design of each unit-delivering quiet, draft-free comfort year-round.

Whether the project is a historic retrofit or modern new construction, The Unico System helps solve the common pain points of multi-family design: minimal space requirements, design flexibility, quiet operation, energy efficiency, and premium aesthetics. That’s why more and more builders are choosing The Unico System to meet the demands of today’s multifamily market.

Want to learn more?

Explore the Lucas Condos Case Study and the Vue Newport Marina Case Study to see how we can elevate your next project.

Comfort Fit for Your Home

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