In this episode of Made With Brilliance, Chelsey and Jahnavi break down one of the hottest—and most confusing—topics in HVAC right now: the refrigerant transition. With new regulations from the EPA and accelerated timelines in New York, developers and engineers alike are navigating a complex shift from R-410A to new refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B. Chelsey and Jahnavi explain what’s changing, who it impacts, and how to approach HVAC design under the new rules. From fire-rated shafts and ventilation challenges to system selection and cost-saving workarounds, they cover the technical and practical sides of compliance while offering clarity in a time of industry-wide uncertainty.

Key Takeaways:

The refrigerant transition is real—and it’s happening fast. New EPA regulations and NY state deadlines are phasing out R-410A, especially for residential and single-phase systems.

New refrigerants bring flammability concerns. R-32 and R-454B require changes to ventilation, shaft design, and space planning due to their increased flammability and toxicity risk.

Ventilation is the biggest design challenge. Especially in NYC, where pitched-down bottom shaft vents require careful coordination with floor heights and façade constraints.

Your timeline and permit date matter. Projects permitted before January 8, 2025, may get more flexibility depending on equipment type and jurisdiction.

Commercial vs. residential systems have different deadlines. Residential projects face tighter rules now, while three-phase commercial projects have more time.

Branch box location and space volume impact design. Smaller spaces require careful calculation, and some manufacturers offer enclosure solutions to ease compliance.

Equipment substitutions aren’t always plug-and-play anymore. Certain refrigerant-compatible features may be brand-specific, locking in manufacturers once design begins.

There are still alternatives to VRF. For some projects, packaged heat pumps, water-source systems, or advanced PTACs may be more practical under the new rules.

Energy modeling is still achievable. With careful equipment sizing and zoning, projects can still meet performance thresholds—even with package systems.

MWB is proactively working with the DOB. They’re submitting CCD1s to explore exemptions and staying ahead of code changes to help clients minimize cost and complexity.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00:00] Intro and why refrigerants are a hot topic

[00:01:00] R-410A phaseout timeline and regulatory background

[00:02:00] Key differences between New York and federal regulations

[00:04:00] Permitting deadlines and phased compliance

[00:05:00] How new refrigerants affect fire rating and ventilation design

[00:06:00] Shaft ventilation strategies—natural vs. mechanical

[00:08:00] Design trade-offs: shaft continuity, offsets, and facade penetrations

[00:10:00] Heat pump vs. heat recovery systems under the new code

[00:11:00] Manufacturer-specific constraints and branch box enclosures

[00:13:00] Why project-specific design matters more than ever

[00:14:00] Cost drivers: bottom-of-shaft venting and physical space limitations

[00:16:00] Future solutions: ventilated copper, pressure testing, and upcoming standards

[00:17:00] Alternate HVAC systems: PTACs, WSHPs, and pre-packaged units

[00:18:00] Viability of package units in NYC winter conditions

[00:20:00] Impact of backup coils on energy modeling and zoning bonuses

[00:22:00] The importance of collaboration across owners, engineers, and contractors

[00:25:00] New requirements: hard copper, potential future repairs, and reclaimed refrigerants

[00:27:00] Final takeaways: educate early, check assumptions, and engage your engineer from day one

In this expert-led episode of Made With Brilliance by MWB Engineering, principals Flori Muresan and Jahnavi Sajip answer the most frequently asked questions they receive from developers, architects, and project owners. From identifying the biggest cost drivers in MEP systems to navigating utility coordination and planning for renovation surprises, Flori and Jahnavi break down the technical challenges that can derail a project—and how MWB’s proactive approach keeps things on track. Listeners get a detailed look into how early-stage planning, thoughtful communication, and team-wide coordination directly impact timelines, budgets, and outcomes in modern building projects.

Key Takeaways:

Utilities Are a Major Cost Driver: HVAC systems, electrical service upgrades, and vault installations are often the largest budget items in a project.

Start Con Edison Applications Early: With New York’s electrification push, utility applications must begin during schematic design to avoid delays.

Communication Begins at Kickoff: MWB conducts kickoff meetings to align teams on infrastructure needs, code impacts, and cost implications from the start.

Renovation Requires Investigation: Old drawings are often inaccurate—site visits, early demolition, and field verification are key to reducing risk.

Contingency Is Non-Negotiable: MEP, architectural, and structural unknowns require built-in buffer budgets, especially in renovation projects.

Coordination Is Everything: Misalignment between MEP systems and structural or lighting layouts can lead to costly field conflicts if not caught early.

Value Engineering Starts Early: Involving contractors during design leads to smarter, cost-efficient decisions that preserve performance and quality.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00:00] Introduction and overview of common MEP-related questions from clients.

[00:01:00] Discussion of high-cost items including HVAC systems, electrical upgrades, and utility vaults.

[00:02:00] Growing demand for electrical service and why it creates design and permitting challenges.

[00:03:00] Early client communication on agency coordination and infrastructure assumptions.

[00:05:00] Sharing equipment loads and coordination needs at the project kickoff stage.

[00:06:00] How MWB approaches renovations: verifying systems and anticipating upgrades.

[00:08:00] Common risks of relying on outdated drawings without field verification.

[00:10:00] Benefits of designing in two stages—before and after initial demolition.

[00:11:00] Why contingency planning should include unknowns across all trades.

[00:12:00] Real-time collaboration with architecture and structure to reduce redesign during construction.

[00:13:00] Clarifying that MWB’s drawings guide intent—but shop drawings drive final execution.

[00:15:00] How field feedback and shop drawing reviews improve constructability.

[00:16:00] When and how contractors add value through informed design adjustments.

[00:17:00] Value engineering approaches that balance short-term cost and long-term efficiency.

[00:19:00] Comparing systems like heat pump water heaters vs. electric coils for multifamily.

[00:21:00] Final thoughts on design as a collaborative process—where clarity, alignment, and team communication create better buildings.

In this Q&A-style episode of Made With Brilliance, Jahnavi and Chelsey pull back the curtain and answer some of the most frequently asked questions they hear from architects, contractors, and developers. From when to bring MEP engineers into a project to why Revit is worth the investment, this conversation is packed with practical insight and real-world experience from two principals who live and breathe the built environment every day.

They share what makes a project run smoothly (and what doesn’t), why construction admin is more than an afterthought, and how early coordination can save thousands in redesign costs. Whether you’re kicking off a new building or navigating construction hiccups, this episode is a must-listen for anyone working in design and construction who wants to get MEP right the first time.

Key Takeaways:

Bring MEP in at the right time: The sweet spot is design development. Too early? You’ll end up redoing work. Too late? You risk major rework, delays, and compliance issues.

Yes, you need an MEP engineer: From code compliance to coordination, MEP engineers bring technical expertise and project continuity that architects and contractors alone can’t cover.

Code matters more than you think: From DOB requirements to life safety upgrades, understanding how current codes apply to existing buildings can save you from expensive surprises.

Use Revit. Seriously: 3D coordination reduces field conflicts, avoids ceiling height surprises, and makes your construction process more efficient.

Changes during construction are costly: Every late-stage change has a ripple effect—talk to your MEP engineer first, and involve them before you build.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - When is the right time to bring in MEP?

[02:00] - The risks of getting MEP involved too early or too late

[04:30] - What info does MEP need from architects to get started?

[06:30] - Why MEP engineers are critical—even for “simple” jobs

[09:00] - Codes, standards, and the value of staying current

[11:00] - Do you need to bring your existing building up to code?

[13:30] - What happens when you install equipment without a permit

[16:00] - Revit vs. CAD: what to know and when it matters

[21:00] - Does Revit actually save time in the long run? (Spoiler: yes)

[23:00] - How changes during construction impact timelines and cost

[28:00] - The role of MEP during construction administration

[31:00] - Why design intent and coordination matter more than ever

In this episode of Made with Brilliance, I sit down with Alexander Harrow, Partner at Freyer Collaborative Architects (FCA), to explore the evolving world of architecture, from historic renovations to cutting-edge construction methods.

Alex shares how his early exposure to architecture, travel, and hands-on design experiences shaped his career. We discuss FCA’s collaborative approach, the balance between preserving history and embracing innovation, and the challenges of building in New York City. From renovating iconic structures to designing new high-rises, Alex dives into the complexities of modern architecture, how technology like Revit and Rhino is reshaping the industry, and why teamwork is essential in bringing visionary projects to life.

Key Takeaways:

Architecture is About Collaboration: Successful projects require teamwork—between architects, engineers, contractors, and clients—to solve problems creatively and efficiently.

Historic Buildings Hold Hidden Stories: Whether it’s uncovering artifacts in old walls or restoring architectural elements, working with historic buildings brings unique challenges and rewards.

The Evolution of Architectural Tools: From hand-drafting and FedExing sketches to full 3D modeling in Revit and Rhino, technology has revolutionized design and construction coordination.

New York City is One of the Toughest Places to Build: With strict zoning laws, historic preservation rules, and space constraints, designing and constructing in NYC requires strategic problem-solving.

Sustainability and Energy Codes are Reshaping Design: New building codes push for greener materials, improved energy efficiency, and innovative solutions like green roofs and solar panels.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - Introduction to Alexander Harrow and his journey into architecture.

[02:00] - Early influences: How travel, family, and curiosity shaped Alex’s career.

[05:00] - FCA’s collaborative design philosophy and why it matters.

[08:00] - The joys and challenges of working on historic renovations.

[12:00] - The shift from hand-drafting to digital modeling in architecture.

[15:00] - The challenges of building in NYC, from zoning to historic approvals.

[20:00] - The future of architecture: sustainability, green design, and smart buildings.

[25:00] - Final thoughts on teamwork, problem-solving, and pushing the industry forward.

In this episode of Made with Brilliance, I sit down with Jerry Isaksen, a principal at MBI Companies, to discuss his inspiring journey from a family deeply rooted in construction to leading a successful architecture and engineering firm. Jerry shares how his childhood experiences in construction shaped his passion for building, eventually leading him to pursue architecture. We explore the challenges and rewards of creating spaces that improve lives, from schools impacted by natural disasters to community-focused projects like homeless shelters and healthcare facilities. Jerry emphasizes the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and communication in delivering projects that leave a lasting impact on both clients and the broader community.

Key Takeaways:

Passion Rooted in Construction: Jerry’s early experiences digging trenches with his grandfather and working on family projects gave him a unique perspective on the built environment, fueling his transition into architecture.

Improving Lives Through Design: From rebuilding tornado-damaged schools to designing rehabilitation centers, Jerry highlights the fulfilling aspect of creating spaces that enhance communities and uplift individuals.

Collaboration is Critical: Jerry stresses the importance of open communication and teamwork between architects, contractors, and owners to ensure project success.

Mentoring the Next Generation: Through MBI’s involvement with ACE Mentor Program, Jerry shares his dedication to fostering interest in architecture and engineering among high school students.

Resilience and Adaptability: Tackling complex, high-stakes projects has taught Jerry and his team the value of maintaining focus, clear communication, and a people-first approach.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - Introduction to Jerry Isaksen and MBI Companies.

[02:00] - Jerry’s journey from construction to architecture and the early influences on his career.

[05:00] - Challenges and rewards of rebuilding a tornado-damaged school.

[08:00] - The emotional impact of designing community and healthcare spaces.

[12:00] - How mentorship shapes the next generation of architects and engineers.

[15:00] - The role of collaboration and communication in successful project delivery.

[20:00] - Looking ahead: embracing technology and preparing for the future of design.

Links & Resources:

In this episode of Made with Brilliance, I sit down with Jeff Ackerman, the founder of Rise Architecture, to discuss his incredible journey from studying architecture to leading a multi-state firm renowned for its client-focused design and innovative solutions. Jeff shares how his entrepreneurial spirit, shaped by early experiences in the industry, led to the creation and evolution of Rise Architecture. We dive into the challenges and opportunities of balancing creativity with practicality in architecture, the importance of building strong client and consultant relationships, and the strategies Jeff uses to ensure quality and consistency as his company grows. This episode provides a fascinating look into the world of architecture and the mindset required to thrive in the industry.

Key Takeaways:

Building for Clients, Not Architects: Jeff emphasizes that architecture should reflect the client’s vision and needs, not the architect’s personal style, ensuring each project is unique and meaningful.

Scaling with Strong Leadership: Hiring experienced professionals and giving them ownership in their roles has been pivotal to Rise Architecture’s successful expansion across multiple states.

Balancing Creativity with Cost: Jeff illustrates how decisions like structural layouts and material choices impact both design and cost, highlighting the importance of blending practicality with aesthetics.

Collaboration is Key: Long-term relationships with trusted consultants and contractors create a foundation for successful, high-quality projects.

Staying Client-Centric: Transparency, clear communication, and focusing on the client’s goals have been central to Jeff’s approach, resulting in repeat business and trusted partnerships.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - Introduction to Jeff Ackerman and the founding of Rise Architecture.

[02:00] - Jeff’s entrepreneurial journey and the evolution of Rise Architecture.

[05:00] - Strategies for scaling and maintaining quality while expanding.

[08:00] - Balancing creativity, cost, and practicality in architectural design.

[12:00] - The importance of trust and collaboration with consultants.

[15:00] - Jeff’s insights on navigating challenges in construction and development.

[20:00] - Closing thoughts on the future of Rise Architecture and fostering client relationships.

In this episode of “Made with Brilliance,” I sit down with Ross Spivak, founder and CEO of RES Consulting, a project management and owner’s representation firm based in New York. Ross shares his unique journey from architecture to construction management, revealing how an early internship changed his career path and led him to focus on turning clients’ visions into reality. We discuss his core values of honesty, integrity, and communication, and how they shape his approach to managing complex projects like embassies and high-rise developments. Ross explains his strategies for managing high-pressure situations, resolving conflicts, and the critical importance of maintaining strong professional relationships in the construction industry. This conversation provides invaluable insights for anyone in the architecture and construction fields, highlighting the power of clear communication, collaboration, and forward-thinking in project management.

Key Takeaways:

Honesty and Communication: Ross emphasizes that honesty, integrity, and clear communication are essential for navigating the challenges of construction, allowing for proactive problem-solving and building trust with clients.

Planning for the Unexpected: Effective project management requires contingency planning. Ross suggests building in time and budget buffers to handle the inevitable surprises that arise during construction.

Strong Professional Relationships: Success in construction depends on strong relationships with contractors, engineers, and clients. Ross values face-to-face meetings and regular communication to keep projects on track and foster long-term trust.

Staying Level-Headed Under Pressure: From embassies to large-scale residential projects, Ross shares his strategy of taking a step back to assess and solve problems calmly, rather than reacting impulsively.

Anticipating Industry Shifts: Ross identifies trends in affordable housing and the growing demand for skilled tradespeople, underlining the importance of adaptability as the construction industry evolves.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - Introduction to Ross Spivak and the founding of RES Consulting.

[02:00] - Ross’s career shift from architecture to construction management.

[05:00] - The core values of honesty and integrity in managing client expectations.

[08:00] - Strategies for maintaining composure and solving conflicts under pressure.

[12:00] - Importance of contingency planning and building relationships in construction.

[15:00] - Trends in affordable housing and skilled labor shortages.

[20:00] - Final thoughts on navigating challenges and fostering lasting client relationships.

In this special episode of “Made with Brilliance,” I, Chelseyann Bepat, take a seat on the other side of the mic to be interviewed by our marketing expert, Brian Chaney.

We dive into MWB Engineering’s philosophy, exploring our client-focused approach, the importance of clear communication, and the commitment to quality that defines our projects. I share insights on what we look for in client partnerships, the balance between creativity and practicality in engineering, and our approach to navigating New York City’s building codes and energy requirements.

We also discuss the future of MWB Engineering, from expanding our services to tackling more high-rise buildings and energy-efficient projects. This episode provides an inside look at how MWB Engineering is building brilliance in every project.

Key Takeaways:

A Philosophy of Communication and Responsiveness: At MWB, we prioritize communication and responsiveness, aiming to build trust with our clients by walking them through each project step-by-step and being proactive about potential challenges.

Balancing Client Vision with Practical Constraints: Our role often involves bridging the gap between a client’s vision and practical reality, helping them understand what’s achievable within New York City’s unique constraints and regulatory environment.

Navigating New York City’s Building Codes: Local laws, such as New York City’s Local Law 97, require us to educate clients on sustainable building practices, showing how energy-efficient designs reduce operational costs and future fines.

Commitment to Client Satisfaction and Repeat Business: A large part of our work comes from repeat clients, which we see as a testament to the quality of service, reliability, and solutions we provide on every project.

Future Growth in High-Rise and Sustainable Design: Looking forward, MWB is focused on expanding our team, tackling more high-rise projects, and enhancing our offerings in energy efficiency to meet the growing demand for sustainable and compliant building solutions.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - Introduction to the episode with Brian Chaney interviewing Chelseyann.

[01:00] - MWB’s client philosophy and what we look for in client partnerships.

[03:00] - Balancing vision and practicality, and dealing with regulatory challenges.

[06:00] - The onboarding process and the importance of clear communication.

[08:00] - Educating clients on New York’s energy codes, like Local Law 97.

[10:00] - Overcoming project challenges and building client loyalty.

[15:00] - Exciting growth areas, including high-rise projects and sustainable design.

In this episode of “Made With Brilliance,” Chelsey sits down with Alex Badalamenti, President and CEO of BLD Architecture, to discuss his journey in the world of architecture and the incredible projects his firm is working on. We explore BLD’s approach to architectural design, their core services, and how they balance artistic vision with practical constraints. Alex shares his insights on problem-solving in architecture, using the major expansion project at Jake’s 58 Casino in Islandia, New York as a prime example.

We discuss the challenges of working on a large, complex project where the facility operates 24/7, and how collaboration between architects, engineers, and various consultants ensures that everything from design to construction runs smoothly. This episode dives deep into the architectural process and highlights how BLD Architecture is making its mark on Long Island’s architectural landscape.

Key Takeaways:

Balancing Art and Engineering: Alex emphasizes that architecture is not just about artistic design but also about problem-solving, ensuring that every aspect of a project—from aesthetics to functionality—works harmoniously.

The Jake’s 58 Expansion Project: One of BLD’s most fascinating ongoing projects, the expansion of Jake’s 58 Casino, is a massive undertaking involving the doubling of the casino size and tripling the parking capacity while keeping the facility operational.

Collaboration is Key: Successful architectural projects require close collaboration with clients, engineers, and consultants. Alex explains how their team brings together diverse experts to address issues like zoning, environmental concerns, and logistics.

Adapting to Existing Structures: The challenges of upgrading and expanding existing buildings are significant, as seen with Jake’s 58, where every system from utilities to aesthetics had to be modernized while keeping the casino operational.

Effortless Design: Alex highlights that the goal of any architectural project is to make the end result look effortless, even though the process is complex and involves solving thousands of problems along the way.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - Introduction to Alex Badalamenti and BLD Architecture.

[01:00] - Alex shares his journey in architecture, from early career to leading BLD.

[03:00] - The challenges and excitement of working on large-scale projects like Jake’s 58 Casino.

[05:00] - The importance of solving problems in architecture and how BLD approaches complex design issues.

[08:00] - Collaboration with engineers, consultants, and clients to ensure project success.

[10:00] - Navigating zoning, environmental, and logistical challenges in architectural projects.

[14:00] - Final thoughts on BLD’s work and their approach to making design look effortless.

In this episode of “Made With Brilliance,” hosts Jahnavi and Chelseyann delve into the complex topic of energy modeling, particularly in the context of New York City’s stringent energy codes and regulations. They discuss the different compliance paths available, such as ComCheck and energy modeling, highlighting the benefits of each. The conversation explores how energy modeling can lead to significant advantages for developers, including increased Floor Area Ratio (FAR) and compliance with Local Law 97, which mandates lower carbon emissions for buildings. They also touch on the importance of early-stage planning and collaboration with MEP engineers to optimize building performance, reduce costs, and ensure long-term sustainability. This episode is packed with practical insights for developers, architects, and engineers looking to navigate New York City’s evolving energy landscape.

Key Takeaways:

Energy Modeling vs. ComCheck: While ComCheck is a simpler compliance path, energy modeling offers more significant benefits, including the potential for increased FAR and better long-term cost savings.

Importance of Early-Stage Planning: Starting the energy modeling process early in the design phase is crucial to ensure that all components of the building work together efficiently to meet or exceed energy code requirements.

Local Law 97 Compliance: Energy modeling is essential not only for new buildings but also for existing structures to avoid penalties under Local Law 97, which focuses on reducing carbon emissions.

Maximizing Energy Efficiency: Strategies such as using VRF systems, heat pump water heaters, and optimizing building envelopes are key to achieving the 15% more efficient threshold required for additional FAR and other incentives.

New Energy Division at MWB: To better assist clients with the complexities of energy modeling and compliance, MWB Engineering is launching a new energy division focused on providing comprehensive guidance and support throughout the design and construction process.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - Introduction to the episode and the importance of energy modeling.

[01:00] - Overview of ComCheck and energy modeling as compliance paths in NYC.

[03:00] - Benefits of energy modeling, including increased FAR and cost efficiency.

[05:00] - Key considerations in envelope design and HVAC systems for energy efficiency.

[08:00] - Discussion on Local Law 97 and its impact on building design and retrofitting.

[10:00] - The role of early-stage planning in successful energy modeling.

[15:00] - Introduction of MWB Engineering’s new energy division to assist with compliance and sustainability efforts.

[20:00] - Final thoughts on the importance of integrating energy modeling into the design process.