Hidden AC. We're sure you're probably not too concerned with air conditioning right now, but we wanted to share this while we have it on our mind. It's Unico System's small-duct air conditioning. The system uses small ducts (2" diameter) to provide AC through small, circular or slotted grilles in your wall. The system is often used in older buildings where conventional ductwork is not a viable option. Unico Systems are often installed without a need for invasive renovations...
We first saw the system in our cousin's old Victorian farmhouse renovation. We've love to see it applied in our old apartment building: this would be a wonderful alternative to individual window units. While cooling the air, it also removes excessive humidity from the air and operates quietly despite the high-velocity air that moves through the system. The Unico website is informative and shares much more than we can communicate here, so check it out.
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You see alot of the "spacepac" systems here in the Chicago-area in older radiator heated bungalows....especially in Oak Park. They work great and whereas we were originally going that route in our 1890's 2 flat instead we are going with a ductless split system like the Mr. Slim...but that's really a project on the bottom of a long list!
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I saw this system used in a renovated 18th century farmhouse in the Catskills -- it was amazing how unobtrusive it was.
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I've always wondered why the 2-inch vent holes in the floor do not have a screen to prevent dirt, pennies, etc. from falling in.
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