My overall HVAC strategy is to have an exposed system that runs parallel to the beams in my structure. Mass timber has revolutionized the tectonics of wood structures by creating panels that span in two directions. I harness this innovation by setting up a grid approximately 10x30, requiring only one beam on the long span, and orienting the structure to allow a single large duct to run into each arm of my building.
One mistake I made was with the stair and elevator arrangement, which blocked the further arm of the building from receiving ducts. I had to remedy this by routing some ducts under a few beams in one area. Which is a failure of my main goal of how I organized my structure.
Given Copenhagen's climate, heating is the dominant load. I have an unshaded glass southern facade and a lightweight topping slab, both designed to work together in capturing and storing as much heat as possible.
Some HVAC challenges I faced included realizing how large these ducts become when planning for just one branch per arm, especially since a return duct is also needed. This highlights the point made in class that early coordination between trades will lead to a more efficient design strategy.