Distribution and cold storage facilities rely on high-performance refrigeration systems operating at scale. We support developers, operators and contractors from early feasibility through to detailed design, delivering efficient, resilient solutions for cold stores, distribution centres and temperature-controlled environments.

Key Challenges

Maintaining temperature integrity across large-scale operations
Managing energy use and system efficiency
Ensuring reliability in 24/7 environments
Integrating systems within complex, high volume facilities
Meeting evolving compliance and refrigerant regulations

What We Do

Feasibility studies and system strategy
Large-scale refrigeration system design
Airflow management and performance optimisation
3D BIM (Revit) modelling
Procurement and tender support
On-site technical support and commissioning input
Compliance guidance including F-Gas and pressure systems

Projects & Case Studies

Recent projects across distribution and cold storage environments.

4 days ago Commercial & Retail

Marks & Spencer Foodhall, Poole

Orwell Design Associates was appointed to deliver a fully coordinated design package for the refurbishment of a former Homebase unit into a new Marks & Spencer Foodhall. The project required a complete redesign of refrigeration, mechanical and electrical services to suit the new retail environment, alongside ongoing technical support during construction.

Repurposing an existing retail unit presented a number of coordination challenges, particularly around integrating new building services within the constraints of the existing structure. Ensuring all systems worked together efficiently, while meeting operational, spatial and programme requirements, was key to the success of the project.

Inside of a warehouse with cherry picker.

3 weeks ago Distribution & Cold Storage

Multi Chamber Distribution Centre

When a leading UK seafoods supplier leased a 15,000m2 warehouse for their new National Distribution Centre, Orwell Design Associates were engaged to design the refrigeration system for multiple chambers.

Located in the Northwest of England, the facility consists of three temperature-controlled chambers. One +1°C chilled chamber and two large -22°C. Since the three chambers were a mix of chill and frozen with two different evaporating temperatures, and taking the environment impact into consideration, CO₂ transcritical booster packs were selected.

More Projects & Case Studies