Temperatures in Detroit, like so many urban centers, have seen higher than normal average temperatures for the past several years.
Global climate change has affected all four seasons in the Midwest. Summers have seen rising temperatures and increased humidity that can make working in older buildings without air conditioning especially uncomfortable.
Air conditioning, once considered a luxury, is now considered a necessity to many. Property owners are finding creative ways to upgrade building systems and introduce new technologies for energy management and efficiency. Financing can be key as programs like PACE and utility company energy saving incentives are rolled out all over metro areas.
Business owners that lease space are especially concerned with office environments as they struggle to attract and keep good employees. Satisfaction and productivity are key! On top of that, many buildings have older windows that don’t open well, and air quality is a concern.
Detroit’s large inventory of historic buildings all face the challenge of competing for tenants in a modern culture, where classic architecture is revered, but can be seen as obsolete. Some tenants are deterred because they find gorgeous gothic or historic spaces they love, but they’re unable to overlook that it has not been upgraded and certain modern amenities: Fans, window air-conditioning units and air towers are not only an eye sore; they can also present safety hazards, can be loud, and are a reminder of why new technology has become necessary.
In addition, fires and other electrical issues are common with old equipment and window-air conditioning units and most historic buildings already have more than enough preexisting electric and plumbing concerns.
It is critical for property managers and developers to collaborate on upgrading HVAC systems. Investment in new mechanical systems extends the life of charming, historic buildings. This is nothing new in the built environment, but in the U.S. is a new concept as our buildings age out.
New and upgraded HVAC systems are more marketable and can command higher rents. Highlighting the value of increased comfort provided with new or upgraded HVAC systems certainly helps sell the next generation of business leaders on the charm of a historic building.
As visionary developers continue to invest in the historic buildings of Metro Detroit making the commitment to new air-conditioning systems is a breath of fresh air in the built environment where everything old is new again.