When you walk into a Dunkin' store for your morning coffee, you probably don't think about the complex engineering systems working behind the scenes. But our fascinating story is here – one of precision, innovation, and careful planning that makes your daily coffee run possible.
NY Engineers has established itself as a leading MEP design firm in the quick-service restaurant sector, with an impressive portfolio of over 450+ Dunkin' stores and designing stores for other 250+ brands. Our journey showcases how modern engineering transforms simple retail spaces into efficient, comfortable environments for both customers and staff.
When designing a Dunkin’ project, our engineers take the following requirements into account and navigate these challenges.
Challenge: Ensuring proper ventilation in a kitchen can be tricky, especially with hood placement for ovens and sandwich stations.
Solution: We carefully coordinate with the architect and kitchen layout to ensure hoods are positioned for optimal airflow while meeting code requirements, usually type || hood is suggested for Dunkin.
Challenge: Designing an exhaust system that can handle the volume of air needed while preventing overheating or poor air circulation.
Solution: We perform thorough airflow calculations and design custom ductwork solutions to ensure the system is efficient and meets the needs of the kitchen.
Challenge: Kitchens generate high heat, making it difficult to size HVAC systems properly to maintain comfort and airflow.
Solution: Our engineers assess the heat load and design an HVAC system that can handle the extra demand while maintaining comfort for staff and customers.
The optimal solution is to design an HVAC system that regulates humidity levels, especially in storage areas and display cases, to ensure donuts remain soft and fresh throughout the day.
Challenge: Determining the correct voltage level for the project can be delayed if utility provider information is not readily available.
Solution: To avoid delays, we follow up with the architect proactively and if not then we verify the voltage level directly with the utility provider.
Challenge: When only a high-voltage supply is available, finding a suitable location for the transformer becomes a challenge.
Solution: We work closely with the architect to determine the best exterior location for the transformer, ensuring compliance with site constraints and safety regulations.
Challenge: Existing Equipment Reutilization According to Space
Solution: We explore replacement options or offer alternative solutions, utilizing existing equipment where possible or adding new ones to meet the space and operational needs.
Challenge: Grease Interceptor Compatibility with Existing Systems
Solution: We cross-check the existing building capacity and the current grease interceptor to ensure it meets the required specifications and complies with local codes. If needed, we propose upgrades or replacements to fulfill the requirements.
Designing 450+ successful Dunkin’ facilities comes down to streamlined processes and technological innovation. We leverage a step-by-step approach to ensure each project is completed to perfection:
Start each project by collaborating with architects to discuss and determine the most suitable MEP system, ensuring it aligns with project goals and requirements.
Before starting designs, NY Engineers evaluate the site by the plan provided by an architect to analyze constraints such as local building codes, utility availability, and spatial limitations. This step is critical for tailoring each location's design while maximizing efficiency.
We create precise and coordinated Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) system designs. Our process integrates these designs seamlessly with the architectural and structural models, ensuring complete collaboration and alignment among all project team members. This comprehensive approach allows us to address potential conflicts and clashes early in the design phase. By proactively coordinating all disciplines, we streamline the design, coordination, and construction processes. This meticulous planning and clash detection significantly reduces the risk of on-site issues, minimizing project delays and ultimately saving our franchisees valuable time and construction costs.
Correct MEP systems overlap with architectural and structural designs. NY Engineers works seamlessly with architects and contractors to identify and mitigate design conflicts before construction begins, reducing delays and rework.
Sustainability doesn’t just fulfill environmental goals—it also saves franchise owners money in the long term. By prioritizing renewable energy and energy-efficient equipment like using Energy-Efficient HVAC Systems, Energy-Efficient Lighting, Grease Management Systems and Waste Management and Recycling, We help Dunkin’ locations reduce energy consumption without compromising performance.
MEP engineering is pivotal for franchise businesses, especially in the food and beverage industry. From maintaining efficient systems to cutting operational costs, it lays the groundwork for functionality and long-term growth. For Dunkin’, these engineering efforts translate into streamlined operations, excellent customer experience, and adherence to the brand’s long-standing reputation.
With over 450+ projects under its belt, NY Engineers has proven that great engineering is at the heart of any successful franchise operation.
As Dunkin' continues to evolve its store concept, NY Engineers remain at the forefront of MEP innovation. Our work demonstrates that successful restaurant engineering isn't just about following blueprints – it's about creating smart, efficient solutions that serve businesses and their customers for years to come.
The next time you visit a Dunkin' store, take a moment to appreciate the invisible systems at work – the perfectly regulated temperature, the efficiently running equipment, and the seamless operation that makes your coffee run possible. Behind each of these elements is a team of engineers who've turned complex challenges into elegant solutions, one store at a time.
Are you planning to expand your franchise or design an innovative commercial space? NY Engineers’ expertise in MEP services guarantees efficiency, project precision, and cost savings.
From Dunkin’ to your dream franchise, we ensure every project is a success from the ground up. Reach out to our team today to get started on your next project with confidence.
Below are a few Dunkin' projects we've worked on,
https://www.ny-engineers.com/sample-work/franchise/dunkin-donuts-virginia
https://www.ny-engineers.com/sample-work/franchise/dunkin-donuts-missouri
https://www.ny-engineers.com/sample-work/franchise/dunkin-donuts-michigan
For additional details about our Dunkin' projects, please contact keith@ny-engineers.com