Biography
Benjy is a Principal in Gensler’s Chicago office and a leader in the firm’s Entertainment practice. With more than 25 years of experience spanning mixed-use development, urban planning, workplace, hospitality, retail, and repositioning projects, he is recognized for creating transformative, city-shaping places.
Benjy brings a global perspective shaped through leadership roles across Gensler, including seven years in the firm’s Shanghai office, where he served as Regional Design Leader. He later returned to the United States to lead Design Experience globally, advancing innovative approaches that connect design excellence with business impact. His portfolio includes landmark projects such as the repositioning of Willis Tower and Navy Pier, McDonald’s LEED Platinum headquarters, and Starwood Capital’s headquarters. Today, Benjy continues to guide transformative urban infill and building repositioning efforts that contribute to the ongoing evolution of downtown Chicago and across the globe.
Architecture at all scales should be designed according to its purpose. Whether what is designed is experienced at an urban scale, within a given space, or held in your hand, human interaction and emotion need to take precedent over the object itself.
Selected Projects
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Qualifications and Recognition
Master of Architecture, University of Pennsylvania
Bachelor of Arts, Lehigh University
Architectural Design Certificate, Columbia University
Registered Architect: California
LEED AP BD+C
Member, American Institute of Architects (AIA), Chicago
Panelist, “Reimagining the City,” Chicago Build Expo, 2025
Presenter, “Reimagining North Michigan Avenue,” Realty Club of Chicago, 2025