PROJECTS
Urban Kayak HVAC Project — Commercial Mechanical Work in Converted Conex Buildings
Project
HVAC Installation in Modular Conex Buildings
Services
Commercial HVAC, Equipment Setting & Structural Steel Fabrication Services for Industrial Facilities
Date
2022
Location
Urban Kayak - Riverwalk, Chicago, IL
Project Overview
Urban Kayak needed a fast, reliable HVAC solution for their new modular facility—constructed entirely from converted shipping containers (conex boxes) along the Chicago Riverwalk. The goal? Ensure comfort and ventilation for visitors and staff inside tight, unconventional spaces—without compromising aesthetics or space efficiency.
With no traditional structure, confined mechanical space, and public foot traffic all around, the build required creative design, careful coordination, and field-proven expertise.
DePue Mechanical was brought in to design, furnish, and install a complete commercial HVAC system that met all functional, spatial, and compliance needs, while staying on a fast-track timeline before busy season.
Scope of Work
We provided a comprehensive commercial HVAC solution tailored to the unique challenges of building within converted shipping containers at Urban Kayak’s Chicago Riverwalk location. The full scope included:
Furnishing and Installing Two (2) Roof-Mounted HVAC Units
For both heating and air conditioning, with custom mounts designed for modular conex structures.
Installation of a Commercial Kitchen Hood System
Engineered and installed a high-capacity kitchen exhaust hood to serve Urban Kayak’s on-site food prep operations.
Bathroom Exhaust and Ventilation Systems
Designed and implemented exhaust mechanisms to provide airflow and meet commercial code compliance in compact restroom layouts.
Make-Up Air Unit (MUA) for Kitchen Ventilation
Installed an MUA system to properly balance air pressure and ventilation demands from the kitchen hood, improving indoor air quality and energy efficiency.
Interior Sheet Metal Ductwork
Custom-fit ductwork inside two modular container buildings, ensuring efficient airflow in tight spaces.
Condensate Drainage and Mechanical Piping
Discrete yet code-compliant routing of piping within structural constraints.
System Startup and Testing
Final mechanical inspection and functional testing to ensure all systems operated within performance specs.
Challenges We Solved
Tight jobsite logistics along the Riverwalk with limited roof access
No traditional walls or basements, requiring creative piping and duct routing
Public area proximity demanded clean, efficient, and code-compliant execution
Fast-tracked schedule to meet Urban Kayak’s seasonal operations deadline
Why It Matters
This project showcases our ability to deliver turnkey mechanical solutions for nontraditional structures, including modular container buildings. Whether it’s a new brewery, riverwalk food vendor, or pop-up hospitality space, DePue Mechanical brings real-world constructability to the table — not just drawings and designs.
Results
A fully functional HVAC system inside modular conex units
Climate-controlled comfort for staff and guests
Balanced kitchen ventilation with safe airflow
Fast installation without disrupting pedestrian areas
Code-compliant mechanical systems ready for inspection and use
About DePue Mechanical
DePue Mechanical specializes in commercial HVAC, sheet metal, and mechanical piping projects across Illinois. From traditional industrial facilities to modular builds like Urban Kayak, our team understands how to bring complex mechanical systems to life; fast, clean, and right the first time.
Need HVAC Support for Your Modular or Urban Build?
📍 Located in Chicago or surrounding areas?
💡 Planning a container-based facility?
📞 Let’s talk.
➡️ Request a Quote Today
