Ben Lee _ Architecture Portfolio

BEN LEE

B.Arch | 2025 Virginia Tech School of Architecture

Ben Lee

Education

2020 - 2025

2023 - 2024

2017 - 2018

2013 - 2017

Work Experience

2024. 05 - 2024. 08

2024. 01 - 2024. 05

2024. 12 - 2024. 01

2023. 08 - 2023. 12

2023. 05 - 2023.08

Virginia Tech

Bachelor of Architecture

In Major GPA: 3.8 out of 4

Washington-Alexandria Architecture Center

Virginia Tech - Blacksburg, VA

Bachelor of Engineering

Immaculata High School - Leavenworth, KS

Michael Graves - Capitol Hill, DC

Summer Architectural Intern

Michael Graves - Capitol Hill, DC Architectural Part-time Intern

Michael Graves - Capitol Hill, DC

Winter Architectural Intern

Michael Graves - Capitol Hill, DC

Architectural Part-time Intern

Michael Graves - Capitol Hill, DC

Summer Architectural Intern

2022. 12 - 2023. 01 VIA Design Architects - Norfolk, VA

Winter Architectural Intern

2019. 09 - 2020 .02

2019. 07 - 2019 .08

2019. 03 - 2020 .01

2018. 05 - 2020.02

Skills

Republic of Korea Army - Seoul, South Korea Military Peer Counselor

Ministry of National Defense - Seoul, South Korea

English Translator

Republic of Korea Army - Seoul, South Korea

Signal Corps Squad Leader

Republic of Korea Army - Incheon, South Korea

Telecommunicator/ Field Wireman - (Discharged as Sergeant)

/ BIM

| Grasshopper | Revit | AutoCad | SketchUp

4465 MacArthur

TEL +1 316 771 0494

EMAIL do0311@vt.edu

www.linkedin.com/in/benlee01

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 seamlessly 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.

Tyrrhenian Sea

2. Gallery Hall

3. Sculpture Gallery

4. Entrance / Main Elevator

Project / Title Trepied

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.

The Lair of Stolen Art: Rembrandt Capri, Italy Ocean

entrance ramp

Grounding Wall

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.

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

- interior

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.

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 Project

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

1’ - 0” = 1/32”

C-02

Villain’s Lair Group Project

Capri, Italy Ocean

C-04

Villain’s Lair Group Project Group Model

Capri, Italy Ocean Scale:

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”

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.

The House of Surreal Serenity Alexandria, VA

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. Project / Title

House of Surreal Serenity Lobby

FOUNDATION DETAIL

1. 3/8” GYPSUM WALL BOARD 2. STUCCO EXTERIOR FINISH 3. R-17 RIGID INSULATION

REINFORCED CMU 5. VAPOR BARRIER

VAPOR BARRIER

Project / Title

Heydar Aliyev Center

Location

Baku, Azerbaijan

Zaha Hadid top layer vertices bottom layer vertices

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

Scale: 1’ - 0” = 1/16” www.linkedin.com/in/benlee01

B-03

Scale:

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

House of Surreal Serenity

Third Year Competition: VT_Bike Hub

Year: 2022 (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.

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

Communal Space

Bike Rack Parking

Café 5. Transition Space And Parking 6. Bike Ramp Entrance

7. Bike Helical Ramp Exit

8. Floating Mezzanine

9. Communal Restroom

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.

The fluid organic form of concrete melds strength with sculptural essence, shaping urban landscapes with dynamic architectural statements of endurance

Le Corbusier

Exposed Steel Tube Framing

The Havenwood

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

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

Accessibility

Sun Path

Roof

• primary

• glulam beams

wall

• secondary

• clt panels

floor

• secondary

• clt joists

underside exposed

truss

• primary

• steel

STRUCTURE

columns

• primary

• glulam clt

hybrid beams

mat foundation

• primary

• reinforced concrete

Weather-resistant

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

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

• 5/8” gwb finish ceiling

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.

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

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

Scale:

Professional Experience: Michael Graves

Location: Capital Hill, Washington D.C.

Duration: 2023. 05 - 2024. 08 (1 year 6 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 presentation, including floor plans and elevations - Assisted with the PUD design package

Navy Yard Affordable Housing

Hamlin Senior Affordable Housing

Supervisor: Dale Waldron

Project members: Ben Lee, Jessica Villarreal, Jorel Soto

Location: 1800 Hamlin Street, Washington, DC

- Involved in the schematic design phase of the building - Finalized detailed 3D models and renderings

- Assisted with the design review package