BEN LEE
B.Arch | 2025 Virginia Tech School of Architecture
Ben Lee
Education
2020 - 2025 Virginia Tech
Bachelor of Architecture
In Major GPA: 3.8 out of 4
2023 - 2024 Washington-Alexandria Architecture Center
2017 - 2018 Virginia Tech College of Engineering
Work Experience
2024. 09 - Current Virginia Tech Publishing - Blacksburg, VA “Strength of Materials” Publication Assistant
2024. 05 - 2024. 08 Michael Graves - Capitol Hill, DC Summer Architectural Intern
2024. 01 - 2024. 05
2024. 12 - 2024. 01
Michael Graves - Capitol Hill, DC Part-time Architectural Intern
Michael Graves - Capitol Hill, DC Winter Architectural Intern
2023. 08 - 2023. 12 Michael Graves - Capitol Hill, DC Part-time Architectural Intern
2023. 05 - 2023.08 Michael Graves - Capitol Hill, DC Summer Architectural Intern
2023. 01 VIA Design Architects - Norfolk, VA Winter Architectural Intern
2019. 05 - 2020 .02 Republic of Korea Army - Incheon South Korea Military Peer Counselor
2019. 07 Ministry of National Defense - Seoul, South Korea English Translator
2019. 03 - 2020 .01 Republic of Korea Army - Inche, South Korea Signal Corps Squad Leader
2018. 05 - 2020.02 Republic of Korea Army - Incheon, South Korea Telecommunicator/ Field Wireman, Discharged as a Sergeant
Skills
Office
| PowerPoint | Excel | Word Adobe CC Photoshop | InDesign | Illustrator | Lightroom Rendering
| Enscape | D5 Render CAD / BIM
| Grasshopper | Revit | Dynamo | SketchUp | AutoCad
The role of an architect transcends simple blueprint creation; it embodies a storyteller’s duty, weaving narratives that speak to people from all walks of life. Architects are narrators for clients, codesigners, city planners, and community members. As an architecture student, I am passionate about the idea that the most impactful stories are told through lived experiences.
Imagine explaining the concept of harmony to a young child. Lengthy explanations about musical theory wouldn’t capture their imagination. But play them a beautiful symphony, and they will feel the essence of harmony directly. Architects similarly craft harmony through spatial
design, creating environments that tell stories and evoke emotions.
In my journey as an aspiring architect, my ambition is to be a storyteller who uses space as my medium. I aspire to leverage architectural design to create inclusive, sustainable environments that evoke emotions and foster a sense of connection. My commitment is to shape resilient, socially connected cities where architecture is not just seen but experienced, creating spaces that inspire and resonate deeply with their inhabitants. Just as a child learns harmony through music, I believe people can understand and appreciate architecture through the immersive experiences of well-designed spaces.
505 L Sunridge Dr. Blacksburg, VA
TEL +1 316 771 0494
EMAIL do0311@vt.edu
The Havenwood
Year: 2024
Professor: Andrew Linn
Type: Mixed-use assembly building Site: Maryland, Chillum
The DC Archdiocese is turning its Chillum, Maryland site into a community hub, featuring a new resilience center. This facility extends the existing middle school and provides a secure emergency shelter. The innovative architecture doubles as an energy reservoir during crises, complementing the city grid. This transformative hub goes beyond conventional spaces, serving education, shelter, co-living, and community resilience.
The Havenwood
Pre-k school
Maternity home
Seminary
Senior housing
“Resilient architecture as a form of service / charity to its community”
Project Site Plan
Accessibility
The project embodies the Church’s core values of charity and support, showcasing the Archdiocese’s commitment to community welfare. Designed with resilient architecture, it expands the existing pre-K to middle school, furthering educational missions. Moreover, it serves as a secure emergency shelter during crises, emphasizing the church’s dedication to residents’ well-being and the community’s needs
Programs
wind
Green Space
Sun Path
Roof
• primary
• glulam beams
wall
• secondary
• clt panels
floor
• secondary
• clt joists
underside exposed
truss
• primary
• steel
columns
• primary
• glulam clt
hybrid beams
mat foundation
• primary
• reinforced concrete
STRUCTURE
Weather-resistant Kebony fins for sun shading
roof assembly: ext>int
• retention trim
• filter fleece
• growing medium
• gravel drainage
• water reservoir/root barrier
• 12” cork insulation
• wrb
• 5-ply clt roof panel
• 5/8 gwb finish ceiling
wall assembly: ext>int
• accoya wood cladding
• 3/4” air gap
• wrb
• 5/8” exterior gypsum sheating
• 4” wood fiber board
• 3-ply clt wall panel
• 4” cavity, cellulose insulation
• 3 1/2” stud wall
• 5/8 gwb finish ceiling
• 5/8” gwb finish ceiling facade
floor assembly: ext>int
• 3” gypcrete finish floor
• 3/4” acoustic matt
• 5 ply floor panel
• 5/8” gwb finish ceiling
foundation assembly: ext>int
• 3/4” pargecoat
• wrb
• 3” eps insulation
• 8” concrete wall with copper
• 3” eps insulation
energy
ON SITE SOLAR CAR PORTS / WIND TURBINES, STORED IN THE TWO SERVICE FLOORS
WATER COLLECTED FROM THE EXTENSIVE GREEN ROOF IS STORED IN THE UNDERGROUND WATER STORAGE
FOOD PRODUCED IN THE ROOFTOP HYDROPONIC GARDEN
UNDERGROUND BUNKER PROVIDES SHELTER FOR 36 INDIVIDUALS.
THEFINS
hydroponic garden bay window
A-02 Interior Rendering Date 05.11.2024 Rhino, V-ray, Photoshop
A-03 Interior Rendering Date 05.11.2024 Rhino, V-ray, Photoshop
A-04 Interior Rendering Date 05.11.2024 Rhino, V-ray, Photoshop
A-05
Interior Rendering
Date 05.11.2024 Rhino, V-ray, Photoshop
The Havenwood Chillum, MD
two service floors house essential systems like HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical equipment. Centralizing these utilities enhances building flexibility, eases maintenance and upgrades, ensures uninterrupted operation during emergencies, and allows for seamless future technological advancements.
the Havenwood not only addresses the immediate need for emergency shelters but also fosters community resilience and selfsufficiency. By leveraging the site’s proximity to the church and school, the center emerges as a vital asset, aligning with the ethos of service and support ingrained in the community
The Havenwood Chillum, MD
B-04
The House Of Surreal Serenity
Year: 2023
Professor: Christine Kelley
Type: Private Library
Site: Old Town Alexandria, VA
Nestled in the heart of the historic district of Alexandria, VA, this private library is where visitors can escape from the everyday world and explore their dreams and fantasies through surrealist games and books. The library transcends traditional boundaries, introducing a biomorphic aspect that mirrors the organic forms and patterns found in nature, blending with the charm and character of Old Town Alexandria. In embracing the spirit of surrealism, the project challenges conventional norms and redefines the concept of a library. The unconventional design reflects a deliberate departure from the mundane, encouraging creative exploration of knowledge. Like the Oculus Center in NYC, this library will integrate with the surroundings, giving the impression that the building has been a part of the site since its inception.
METAMORPHOSiS
This biomorphic structure incorporates voronoi patterns, reminiscent of nature’s cellular arrangements, promoting an intricate and interconnected design. The curves and glossy texture borrowed from skulls, portray a life-and-death essence, intertwining the vitality of existence with the inevitability of mortality. Emulating a human heart protected by rib cages, the library has a protected core that serves as the intellectual heartbeat of this surreal space. An exoskeleton, mirroring the strength found in the natural world, envelops the building, providing both structural support and a visual testament to nature’s robust elegance. Rising to a majestic point akin to a Japanese beetle, the library’s silhouette exudes a sense of purpose and direction, inviting people to explore the vast realms of knowledge contained within.
FOUNDATION DETAIL
1. 3/8” GYPSUM WALL BOARD 2. STUCCO EXTERIOR FINISH 3. R-17 RIGID INSULATION 4. REINFORCED CMU
VAPOR BARRIER
6. 1/2” AIR SPACE 7. BASE PLATE 8. POLISHED MARBLE FINISH 9. 2” X 8” PRESSURE TREATED SILL PLATE 10. 8” CONCRETE SLAB
DRIP EDGE 12. R-17 RIGID INSULATION
VAPOR BARRIER
Steel ANCHOR BOLT
THE SKULL
Project
Location Baku, Azerbaijan
Author
Zaha Hadid
Inspired by nature’s cellular arrangements, applying Voronoi patterns to the facade, it can create a dynamic and organic surface that interacts with light and shadow, enhancing the building’s aesthetic appeal. This approach allows for the integration of biomorphic design elements into architectural compositions, fostering a sense of harmony between the built environment and the surrounding natural landscape
B-01
The House of Surreal Serenity Model
Ben Lee_Models
Date 11.29.2023 Alexandria, VA
Scale: 1’ - 0” = 1/16” www.linkedin.com/in/benlee01
B-03
B-04 Model Scale: 1’ - 0” = 1/16”
VORONOI
EMBODIMENT
Drawing from Louis Kahn’s Exeter library, the project features a bold architectural centerpiece in the main lobby, inviting visitors with its commanding presence. Integrated with the surreal and biomorphic design, it enhances the exploration and discovery experience
B-02 The House of Surreal Serenity Model
Ben Lee_Models
VA
Third Year Competition: VT_Bike Hub
Year: 2023 (one week competition)
Type: Institutional Assembly Building Site: Cowgil, Blacksburg VA
The Bike Hub’s architectural narrative continues to unfold as the juxtaposition between Brutalism’s hard lines and the fluidity of the building’s shape and form becomes more apparent. The rigid lines of the concrete structure not only define the space but also serve as a bold backdrop against which the organic curves of the building’s contours come to life. This intentional interplay between the unyielding nature of Brutalist design and the fluidity of the building’s form adds a layer of visual complexity, inviting users to explore the nuances of the space as they navigate through its functional zones. As students park their bikes, sip on coffee, and chat with fellow cyclists, they’re surrounded by architecture that’s more than just practical. It helps them appreciate how design can balance strength and beauty.
Digital Exterior Render Drawing Rhino, V-ray, Photoshop VT Bike Hub Cowgil, Blacksburg VA
Hub
Fluidity
Parking
Two geometries intersect, crafting unique spaces. Overlapping zones become central, accessed primarily by a ramp, weaving through the architecture seamlessly.
Public Restroom 2. Communal Space 3. Bike Rack Parking 4. Café
5. Transition Space And Parking
6. Bike Ramp Entrance
7. Bike Helical Ramp Exit
8. Floating Mezzanine
9. Communal Restroom
Author Le Corbusier
The fluid organic form of concrete melds strength with sculptural essence, shaping urban landscapes with dynamic architectural statements of endurance
The circulation system of the Bike Hub intertwines a ramp, linking the storage area to the café space. This design facilitates fluid movement, ensuring accessibility and integration between functional zones for users.
Exposed Steel Tube Framing
Tyrrhenian Sea
The Lair of Stolen Art: Rembrandt
Year: 2023
Professor: Ben Pennell
Type: Residential gallery
Site: Capri, Italy Ocean
The architectural design of a captivating structure in Capri, Italy draws inspiration from Alexander Calder’s iconic free-flowing curvilinear sculptures. Embracing Calder’s dynamic forms, the building translates his artistic principles into a tangible, three-dimensional structure. The use of the crane as the parti not only influences the overall aesthetic but also guides the structural system, introducing tensional forces that echo Calder’s fascination with equilibrium in his sculptures. Sinuous lines and organic shapes infuse the structure with a sense of movement and fluidity, creating a visual spectacle harmonizing with the surrounding oceanic landscape. Intricate carvings, complex geometries, and bas-relief sculptures further enrich the building, transforming it into an immersive environment that serves both as a hideout and an art gallery for an elusive thief.
2. Gallery Hall
3. Sculpture Gallery
4. Entrance / Main Elevator
Author
Alexander Calder
Grounding Wall
The grounding wall, anchoring the structure to Capri’s oceanic expanse, serves as more than mere support; it becomes a canvas for bas-relief sculptures, embedding the edifice in artistic dialogue with its surroundings. Its robust foundation houses concealed gallery storage, integrating function with form. A segment of the wall is delicately peeled away, allowing gentle diffused light to filter into the storage space, while a glass facade shields the precious contents. This design not only enhances the architectural intrigue but also highlights the interplay between light, space, and art, creating a dynamic experience for visitors and residents alike.
THEBASTION
The Lair of Stolen Art: Rembrandt Capri, Italy Ocean
residence
The residence area, situated in the ‘head’ part of the project, showcases subtle melting floors, crafting fluid and inviting spaces. Inspired by Rembrandt’s mastery of light and shadow, this sophisticated fusion of comfort and artistry elevates the living experience, harmonizing with the structure’s overall aesthetic.
UNDULATIN
wall assembly: ext>int
- precast concrete wall panel
- stainless steel anchor rod
- rigid insulation
- water resistance barrier
- 2-1/3” cavity wall
- steel stud - batt insulation - gypsum board
gallery hall
The gallery hall, the vibrant ‘body’ of the project, boldly exhibits stolen Rembrandt art pieces through a long, continuous hallway. the deliberate arrangement of spaces invites viewers on an immersive journey, fostering profound reflection and contemplation amidst the stolen treasures adorning the walls of this captivating space.
SiNU OUS
prestressing steel
The smooth Bristol board surface allows for precise detailing, capturing intricate geometries and fluid movement, while enabling bas-relief curves emerging from the grounding wall
The tension cables are integrated into the base of the main head structure, ensuring stability without overshadowing its design.
Simultaneously, the torso’s structural columns pierce through the head, offering support to its upper sections while maintaining a subtle presence, symbolizing a union of practicality and aesthetic intent
The Lair of Stolen Art: Rembrandt Model Ben Lee_Models
Capri, Italy Ocean
The Lair of Stolen Art Model
Date 04.25.2023 Capri, Italy Ocean Scale: 1’ - 0” = 1/32”
C-06 Villain’s Lair Group
Capri, Italy Ocean Scale: 1’ - 0” = 1/32”
C-01 Villain’s Lair Group Project Group Model
Studio Group Project
Date
Capri, Italy Ocean Scale: 1’ - 0” = 1/32”
Members: JosephDonaher, Liza Alieva, Virginia Martin, Ben Lee
C-05
Villain’s Lair Group Project
Capri, Italy Ocean
C-02
Villain’s Lair Group Project
Model
Capri, Italy Ocean
C-04
Villain’s Lair Group Project Group Model
Capri, Italy Ocean
C-08
Villain’s Lair Group Project Site Model
Capri, Italy Ocean Scale: 1’ - 0” = 1/32”
C-07
Villain’s Lair Group Project Site Model
Capri, Italy Ocean Scale: 1’ - 0” = 1/32”
Professional Experience: Michael
Graves
Location: Capital Hill, Washington D.C.
Duration: 2023. 05 - 2024. 08 (1 year 4 months)
Job Title: Architectural Intern
Tasks: Managed diverse responsibilities encompassing computer graphics, surveying for as-builts, and overseeing production. This involved drafting and creating construction documents, conducting research on codes and zoning pertinent to ongoing projects, and effectively coordinating schematic documents with partners, project managers, and clients.
Navy Yard Affordable Housing
Supervisor: Jeff Goins
Project members: Ben Lee, Jon Mott, Dale Waldron
Location: 101 Tingey Street, S.E, Washington, DC
- Involved in the pre-design and schematic design phases of the building - Produced a conceptual package for presentations, including floor plans and elevations - Assisted with the PUD design package
Leesburg Hotel - Historic Preservation
Supervisor: Masoud Sharikzadeh
Project members: Ben Lee, An Nguyen, Dale Waldron
Location: 208 S. King St. Leesburg, VA
- Involved in the schematic design and design development phases of the building - Assisted with the production of construction documents and 3D models - Produced an architectural 100% DD package
