In this presentation, Brandon will examine the process of evaluating geothermal and packaged terminal heat pump (PTHP) systems for projects with similar scales and high-performance objectives. Using River Commons and Stapleton Beacon as case studies, he will walk through the technical, logistical, and cost considerations that influenced the feasibility and ultimate success—or limitations—of each system.
Attendees will gain insight into how mechanical system decisions intersect with building design, project planning, and Passive House goals, including:
Understand the costs and benefits of PTHP systems compared with VRF, including how system selection can affect project complexity, installation, and overall performance.
Explore the feasibility of geothermal well systems for domestic hot water and/or heating and cooling in multifamily applications, including key technical and logistical considerations.
Discuss envelope and planning implications associated with these mechanical systems, with particular attention to how early design decisions can support Passive House certification.
Through these two projects, the session will highlight the opportunities, tradeoffs, and practical considerations that arise when pursuing high-performance mechanical systems in multifamily buildings.
About the Speaker:
Brandon has been with Bernheimer Architecture since 2017 and currently serves as the firm’s first Lead of Decarbonization and Building Health. He oversaw BA’s first PHI-certified multifamily project and now leads the firm’s work with NYSERDA’s Buildings of Excellence Early Design Support program, including projects exploring PTHPs, decarbonization, healthy materials, embodied carbon, and climate resilience.
Bernheimer Architecture is a signatory to US Architects Declare and the Architecture 2030 Commitment. When he isn’t squinting at EPDs, Brandon can be found running or building guitars in his garage.
This session kicks off our month-long focus on heat pumps, leading into the Heat Pump Solutions Symposium—a free, virtual event on October 23 featuring deeper conversations and specialized insights on heat pump technology and applications.