Ben Lee — Courtesy: American Institute of Architects-New Jersey
By Joshua Burd
Ben Lee of NK Architects is set to take the reins as New Jersey chapter president of the American Institute of Architects, the organization announced recently.
Lee, a Wayne resident, will be formally installed during AIA-NJ’s annual awards gala on Jan. 14 at the Sheraton in Mahwah. His new role comes after five years of service to the chapter, including stints as first vice president in 2015 and treasurer in 2014.
As president of AIA-NJ, Lee’s objectives for the year include making architects more aware of how the design of the built environment can impact health and wellness, according to a news release. The organization said that, under his direction, it will work with the New Jersey state Legislature and implement a government and public awareness advocacy campaign to enhance the well-being of individuals across the state through the design process.
“As architects, we are best positioned to improve the population’s health through our design for housing, schools, offices and commercial buildings,” Lee said in a prepared statement. “By developing physical space that promotes walking, biking, parks and recreation and public gathering, we are creating a healthier and more livable community.”
Lee, who was also the 2011 president of the Architects League of Northern New Jersey, has more than 35 years of experience in architecture. He is managing principal and chief financial officer of Morristown-based NK Architects and is a board-certified health care architect.
Lee is also a member of several other professional groups such as the American Society of Hospital Engineers, the American Hospital Association and the Healthcare Facilities Management Society of New Jersey, the news release said. He also is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council, a LEED accredited professional and a member of the New Jersey Chapter of the American Planning Association.
