Sustainable building practices that were once considered “cutting edge” are now rightly deemed to be an essential part of any responsible building project.  The Bernier Carr Group has followed sustainable design principles for years, incorporating energy efficient systems, low embodied energy and high recycled content materials, materials with low volatile organic content as well as spatial organizations which take advantage of solar orientation and natural ventilation opportunities into our designs.

With LEED Accredited Professionals on staff and a host of energy-conscious projects completed and in design, the firm continues its quest to promote the use of LEED concepts and alternative energy systems.   The firm is credited as having designed the first LEED-certified dormitories in New York State for Binghamton University.  The 114 bed townhouse project at SUNY Potsdam is LEED certifiable.

The Bernier Carr Group designed a geothermal system that heats and cools the entire 300,000 sq. ft. K-12 Chautauqua Lake Central School District facility year-round We have also developed a design for the LaFargeville Central School District incorporating use of advanced day lighting controls, photovoltaic solar cells, rain water reclamation, green roofs, and wind generated electricity, dedicated green space and tree plantings for carbon off-setting.

The firm has designed environmentally friendly methods in its municipal infrastructure projects such as living reed beds to de-water municipal wastewater sludge and photovoltaic cells to power control system networks.