Jae Bin Lee
Associate AIA, Associate IIDA,
ASID Allied Practitioner
Jae Bin is a multidisciplinary designer and graduate student at University of Southern California, along with a Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Design, currently serving as a technical interpreter for the Republic of Korea Army (ROKA).
He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Environmental + Interior Design (EDI) from Syracuse University, with minors in Architecture, and Information Technology, Design, and Startups (IDS). With expertise spanning graphic, architectural, interior, and UI/UX design, he strives to blend culture, design, and sustainability in his work.
From the early stages of his career, Jae Bin has believed in the interconnectedness of these seemingly disparate design fields, advocating for a unified approach to crafting seamless and exceptional experiences.
In 2023, Jae Bin was awarded the SOURCE (Syracuse Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Engagement) grant to study the impact of the recent COVID-19 pandemic on office design in architecture and interior design. He led a team of three members on this project, traveling across the United States.
Additionally, he was the recipient of the 2023 Katherine Benzel Award for Excellence in Study Abroad. His experiences in Florence, Italy, and London, UK have prepared him to become a culturally diverse designer.
Jae Bin has represented Syracuse University as a VPA Student Ambassador, VPA Philanthropic Ambassador, and Global Ambassador for the Syracuse Abroad program.
Committed to bringing experiential learning to interior design education, Jae Bin served as the founding president of the IIDA Syracuse University Campus Center. He organized over 20 lunch & learn opportunities for students and hosted professional career development events with IIDA Syracuse City Center board members. In 2024, he was awarded the Outstanding Service Award for Professional Development in recognition of his dedication to the interior design industry through the IIDA Syracuse University Campus Center.
Jae Bin has gained practical experience through internships at CannonDesign, working first in Buffalo and later in New York City. His time at CannonDesign has equipped him with hands-on skills and insights into the industry, further enhancing his design capabilities.
Aspiring to be licensed in both interior design and architecture, Jae Bin continues to pursue his passion for design and sustainability at USC.
With a background spanning architecture, interior design, and UI/UX, Jae Bin has always advocated for a unified approach to communication and experience. He currently applies this ethos at the ROKA Logistics Command in Daejeon, where he interprets for the Aviation Equipment Maintenance Branch. In this role, he manages technical translations for rotorcraft systems and facilitates operations between ROK military leadership and US defense partners like the U.S. Army Security Assistance Command.
He is fluent in both English and Korean.
In his free time, Jae Bin enjoys scuba diving and traveling the world, making special memories. He is a PADI certified open water scuba diver.
Last updated: February 2026
ACADEMIC PROFILE
University of Southern California,
M.Arch Candidate, MUP Candidate
2024 - Expected 2027
USC School of Architecture
Syracuse University, B.F.A.
2020 - 2024
College of Visual + Performing Arts - School of Design
School of Architecture
School of Informational Studies
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Jae Bin Lee is currently pursuing a Master of Architecture (M.Arch) degree at the University of Southern California (USC), where he is also earning a Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Design. USC’s School of Architecture is widely recognized for its commitment to innovation, civic engagement, and spatial justice—principles that align closely with Jae Bin’s own design philosophy.
The M.Arch program unfolds in three progressive stages: it begins with foundational design skills, advances to professional competencies, and culminates in a thesis that reflects each student’s unique architectural interests. Situated in the dynamic urban context of Los Angeles, the program offers Jae Bin the opportunity to explore the intersections of culture, sustainability, and spatial equity while engaging with real-world urban challenges.
Through this graduate study, Jae Bin continues to expand his interdisciplinary perspective, drawing connections between architecture, interior design, and socially responsive design practice—preparing him to contribute meaningfully as a future licensed architect and advocate for the built environment.
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Jae Bin Lee is currently pursuing a Master of Urban Planning (MUP) at the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy, one of the nation’s top-ranked institutions for urban policy and planning. The program is distinguished by its emphasis on social justice, data-driven analysis, and the implementation of sustainable urban solutions—core values that resonate with Jae Bin’s dedication to equitable city-building.
The MUP curriculum at USC Price is structured to bridge theory and practice. It provides a rigorous foundation in land use, transit-oriented development, and economic analysis, while allowing Jae Bin to specialize in creating resilient urban environments. Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles—a global laboratory for urban experimentation—the program enables him to engage directly with complex issues like housing affordability, climate adaptation, and community-led revitalization.
Through this degree, Jae Bin is honing his ability to navigate the intricacies of the built environment from a policy and systemic perspective. By integrating his background in design with the strategic tools of urban planning, he is preparing to lead transformative projects that foster vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable communities.
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As part of his Master of Architecture studies at the University of Southern California, Jae Bin Lee is pursuing a Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Design—an interdisciplinary program that equips students with the tools to understand and quantify energy use in buildings and landscapes. This certificate aligns with Jae Bin’s longstanding commitment to integrating sustainability into architectural and interior design practices.
The program emphasizes informed design decisions across natural and man-made systems, focusing on reducing both embodied and operational energy in the built environment. With coursework exploring environmental, economic, and socially responsible solutions, the certificate provides a foundation for sustainable thinking that resonates with Jae Bin’s design ethos—rooted in cultural sensitivity, innovation, and experiential learning.
Building on his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Environmental + Interior Design from Syracuse University, and supported by research funded by the 2023 SOURCE grant, Jae Bin continues to explore how design can adapt to 21st-century challenges, including climate change and shifting workplace norms. His international experiences, professional internships at CannonDesign, and leadership roles in organizations like IIDA have shaped him into a designer dedicated to sustainability, inclusivity, and thoughtful transformation of space.
By bridging sustainability with architecture, this certificate enhances Jae Bin’s goal of becoming licensed in both interior design and architecture—equipping him to craft resilient environments that serve both people and the planet.
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Jae Bin Lee is augmenting his architectural expertise with a Graduate Certificate in Heritage Conservation from the USC School of Architecture. This specialized program is designed for professionals and students who seek to honor the past while shaping the future, focusing on the preservation of the built environment through a lens of cultural significance, sustainability, and social equity.
The certificate curriculum provides a focused deep dive into the philosophical, legal, and technical foundations of heritage conservation. Jae Bin’s studies encompass the history of American architecture, conservation policy, and the practical application of materials and methods used to rehabilitate historic structures. By engaging with Los Angeles’ rich architectural history—from iconic landmarks to under-recognized cultural sites—he is learning to document and protect the "layers of meaning" that define urban spaces.
This program allows Jae Bin to bridge the gap between new construction and existing fabric. By integrating conservation principles into his broader design practice, he is developing the skills necessary to treat the built environment as a continuous narrative—ensuring that the stories and identities embedded in our physical surroundings are preserved for future generations.
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Jae Bin Lee earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Environmental + Interior Design (EDI) from Syracuse University—a program nationally recognized for cultivating creative, curious, and critical thinkers. Ranked among the “Most Admired Interior Design Schools” by DesignIntelligence and named one of “16 Interior Design Schools Worth Applying to” by Architectural Digest, the EDI program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to solving spatial and environmental challenges.
Through hands-on studio work that mirrors the dynamics of a professional design office, Jae Bin explored the intersections of art, architecture, and environmental design. The program’s focus on visualization, communication, and technical proficiency helped shape his ability to design humane and sustainable environments across diverse contexts. With mentorship from faculty and real-world project experience, he developed a strong foundation as a problem-solver and leader in the evolving field of interior design.
This experience laid the groundwork for Jae Bin’s ongoing studies in architecture and sustainability, reinforcing his belief in the power of design to foster equity, resilience, and cultural connection.
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To broaden his understanding of the built environment at multiple scales, Jae Bin Lee pursued a minor in Architecture at the Syracuse University School of Architecture. His academic focus bridges architecture and interior design, emphasizing the importance of integrating architectural principles into interior spaces—and, conversely, bringing the human-centered sensitivity of interior design into architectural thinking. This interdisciplinary approach continues to inform his design philosophy and supports his goal of creating cohesive, meaningful environments from the inside out.
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As part of his interdisciplinary education, Jae Bin Lee pursued a minor in IT Innovation, Design, and Startups (IDS) at Syracuse University’s School of Information Studies. This program empowers students to turn ideas into viable ventures through a structured, hands-on curriculum taught by successful entrepreneurs and industry experts.
Through IDS, Jae completed coursework focused on ideation and team-building, launching a business or nonprofit, and strategies for growth and scalability. The program encouraged him to design impactful solutions by responding to community needs and thinking entrepreneurially across creative disciplines.
This experience deepened Jae’s interest in user-centered design and innovation, reinforcing his ability to navigate between creative vision and practical implementation—skills that continue to influence his architectural and interior design work today.
COLLABORATIONS + EXPERIENCE
Global Practice: 4 Countries, 7 Cities
USA
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South Korea
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UK
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Italy
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USA / South Korea / UK / Italy /
NYC
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LA
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London
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Seoul
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Florence
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Buffalo
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Santa Monica
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NYC / LA / London / Seoul / Florence / Buffalo / Santa Monica /
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Interior Design Intern | Summers 2023 & 2024
Buffalo, NY & New York City, NYOver the course of two summers with CannonDesign, Jae Bin integrated into multi-disciplinary teams across the Buffalo and New York City offices to deliver complex projects in the Higher Education, Science & Technology, and Healthcare sectors. His involvement spanned the entire design lifecycle from programming and schematic design to construction administration, requiring a balance of creative conceptualization and technical rigor. Whether serving as the sole interior designer for specialized laboratory environments or coordinating with engineering teams on healthcare facilities, Jae Bin played a key role in visualizing design solutions, executing technical documentation, and ensuring design intent was maintained through construction.
Key Roles & Projects:
S&T and Higher Education Leadership: Served as the primary interior designer for a Higher Education Science & Technology project, managing space planning and specifying high-performance finishes for laboratory environments.
Mass Timber & Large-Scale Design: Contributed to the design process for a large-scale mass-timber construction project in Buffalo, developing presentation graphics and material boards.
Healthcare Construction Documentation: Collaborated with architectural and engineering teams to issue Proposal Requests (PR) for outpatient healthcare facilities and conducted site visits to verify existing conditions.
Technical Execution: Produced comprehensive design documentation, including floor plans, reflected ceiling plans, elevations, and finish schedules to support construction phases.
FFE & Vendor Coordination: Managed the selection, layout, and documentation of Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FFE) while coordinating directly with material vendors to ensure accurate specifications.
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USC Architecture Externship | March 2025
Santa Monica, CASelected for the prestigious USC Architecture Spring Break Externship Program, Jae Bin joined HLW’s Santa Monica office to bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice. During this intensive placement within the Commercial and Culture & Civic sectors, he focused on the revitalization of a community landmark, balancing modern intervention with historical preservation. Beyond project work, Jae Bin actively engaged in the firm’s culture of continuous learning, participating in high-level workshops that deepened his expertise in sustainable and biophilic design strategies.
Key Roles & Projects:
Adaptive Reuse & Preservation: Collaborated on the design for a sports and recreation center, emphasizing the celebration of the building’s historical significance and distinctive materiality.
Visual Communication: Developed comprehensive interior design finish boards that aligned with the internal design team's conceptual framework.
Sustainable Design Development: Participated in Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and specialized workshops focused on biophilic design, sustainability, and architectural branding strategies.
Competitive Selection: Chosen as one of 21 graduate students to represent USC in a program designed to foster professional development and facilitate high-level industry connections.
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Interior Design Intern | Jan 2023 – May 2023
London, United KingdomWhile based in London, Jae Bin worked onsite with Clifton Interiors, playing a vital support role for the architecture and design teams. He contributed to the technical and visual development of projects by creating detailed FF&E packages for client presentations. Beyond the studio, Jae Bin gained practical site experience by coordinating with external contractors and engineering consultants, while simultaneously helping to integrate British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) standards into the firm’s existing workflow.
Key Roles & Projects:
FF&E & Design Development: Developed comprehensive FF&E presentation packages and detailed design documentation to support client deliverables.
Site Coordination: Participated in on-site meetings with a broad project team, including external contractors, structural engineers, and M&E consultants to ensure design feasibility.
Standardization & Compliance: Integrated British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) standards into Clifton’s internal protocols to ensure regulatory alignment.
Professional Development: Actively attended Continuing Education Sessions (CEU) to stay current with UK industry best practices and standards.
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Architectural Intern | May 2022 – July 2022
Florence, ItalyImmersed in the rich architectural context of Florence, Jae Bin worked on-site at Studio Ponsi, contributing to both the operational and creative facets of the firm. He supported the design team through a combination of physical model making and digital visualization, utilizing a suite of software to produce professional-grade graphics and advance design developments. His tenure also included significant industry engagement, representing the firm at major international design events to track emerging global trends.
Key Roles & Projects:
Visualization & Design Development: Utilized AutoCAD, SketchUp, and the Adobe Suite to produce realistic visuals and support the development of design concepts.
Operational Support: Streamlined studio operations by conducting design research and constructing physical architectural models to test spatial ideas.
Global Industry Engagement: Represented the firm at the Salone Del Mobile Milano (Milan Furniture Fair), networking with international vendors and analyzing current design trends to inform studio work.
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2025 “Graduate Projects” Exhibition Curator | Feb 2025 – Apr 2025
Los Angeles, CAAs a curator for the USC School of Architecture, Jae Bin played a central role in bringing the "Blueprint 2025" exhibition to life. He was responsible for the curation, design, and physical installation of a showcase featuring outstanding graduate work across multiple disciplines, including architecture, landscape architecture, and building science. Working on-site in Los Angeles, Jae Bin coordinated closely with faculty and students to transform diverse architectural artifacts—from drawings to digital media—into a cohesive spatial experience, managing the entire lifecycle of the exhibition from initial layout to final deinstallation.
Key Roles & Projects:
Exhibition Curation: Participated in the curation and installation of the "Blueprint 2025" exhibition, highlighting exceptional graduate work in architecture, heritage conservation, and building science.
Spatial Design & Layout: Contributed to the exhibition design, ensuring a cohesive presentation that effectively integrated diverse media, drawings, and physical artifacts.
Stakeholder Coordination: Collaborated with faculty, students, and staff to organize materials and facilitate a seamless execution of the installation process.
Physical Installation: Assisted in the hands-on setup of exhibition components, including structural assembly, lighting placement, and the integration of digital media displays.
Logistics & Workflow: Managed the exhibition timeline and logistics, ensuring efficient workflow management from the initial build through to deinstallation.
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User Experience Designer | Mar 2020 – Apr 2021
Seoul, South KoreaDuring his time in Seoul, Jae Bin served as a User Experience Designer at IDEA Interactive, specializing in digital promotion and event branding for high-profile corporate clients. He was responsible for the visual identity of digital marketing campaigns, crafting engaging graphics for both web and physical environments. Working primarily with major telecommunications and banking sectors, as well as global F&B franchises, Jae Bin delivered high-volume design assets that enhanced user engagement across various touchpoints.
Key Roles & Projects:
Telecommunications Branding: Led the visual design for KT (Korea Telecom) promotion and events, creating cohesive website banners, posters, and custom illustrations to drive user engagement.
Corporate Collaboration: Partnered with major global franchises including Burger King, Baskin Robbins, and Dunkin' to produce visually compelling design elements for websites, promotional posters, and physical event booths.
Financial Sector UX: Designed exclusive VIP event banners and interface graphics for NongHyup Bank, ensuring a premium visual standard for their digital platforms.
RECOGNITIONS + AWARDS
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In recognition of his contributions to fostering student entrepreneurship, Jae Bin Lee was inducted into the 2024 Founders Circle at Syracuse University’s Blackstone LaunchPad. This honor is awarded to students who have significantly shaped the growth of the LaunchPad community and demonstrated an exceptional commitment to innovation and entrepreneurial leadership.
As a Founders Circle member, Jae Bin serves as a role model for future student entrepreneurs, exemplifying creativity, initiative, and a passion for turning ideas into impact.
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In 2024, Jae Bin Lee received the Outstanding Service Award for Professional Development in Environmental and Interior Design, a prestigious honor recognizing students who have made meaningful contributions to advancing professional growth within their academic community. The award celebrates individuals who not only achieve academic excellence but also demonstrate a strong commitment to service—particularly through initiatives that enhance career readiness and development opportunities for their peers. Jae Bin’s leadership and dedication to bridging education with professional practice were key to this recognition.
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In 2023, Jae Bin Lee led a multidisciplinary research project funded by the Syracuse Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Engagement (SOURCE) to investigate the lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on workspace design. Collaborating with undergraduate students from the School of Design and the School of Architecture, the project aimed to reimagine a post-pandemic workplace that prioritizes sustainability, accessibility, and human wellness.
The research explored key themes such as energy-efficient and economically sustainable design, flexible and adaptable work environments, spatial planning, and the psychological effects of interior space. By integrating perspectives from interior design, architecture, and industrial design, the team developed a holistic framework for future workspaces—balancing large-scale spatial strategies with the emotional and personal nuances of intimate, well-crafted environments.
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In recognition of his outstanding international academic achievements, Jae Bin Lee was awarded the Katherine Benzel Award for Excellence in Study Abroad by Syracuse University’s School of Design. This prestigious honor, named after visionary educator Katherine Benzel, celebrates students who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and cultural engagement during their study abroad experiences in interior design.
Jae Bin's time studying in Florence, Italy, and London, UK, exemplified the values of global exploration and cross-cultural design thinking. His academic excellence, creative work, and contributions to advancing design in an international context earned him this distinction. The award underscores Syracuse University's commitment to cultivating global citizens and highlights the transformative impact of immersive international education on the future of design practice.
INVOLVEMENTS + LEADERSHIP
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In 2023, Jae Bin Lee founded the IIDA Syracuse University Campus Center, establishing a vital connection between the student body and one of the most widely recognized organizations in the commercial interior design industry—the International Interior Design Association (IIDA). Through this initiative, he introduced students to a professional network focused on advancing commercial interior design and fostering industry engagement at the academic level.
As founding president, Jae Bin took on key leadership responsibilities including presiding over campus center meetings, organizing officer assemblies, appointing new leadership roles, and representing the campus chapter at official functions and professional events. He also maintained active communication with IIDA Headquarters and Campus Center alumni, ensuring continuity and growth of the chapter. His efforts helped cultivate a robust professional development environment, encouraging students to build industry connections and prepare for careers in interior design.
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As a member of the VPA Student Ambassadors, Jae Bin Lee was part of an elite group of student volunteers within Syracuse University’s Office of Recruitment and Admissions. In this role, he helped prospective students and their families gain meaningful insight into campus life and the academic experience within the College of Visual and Performing Arts. Through tours, events, and peer mentorship, he served as a representative of the university’s creative community, sharing his experiences and fostering a welcoming environment for future students.
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Jae Bin Lee was selected by the College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) to serve as a Student Philanthropic Ambassador at Syracuse University—an honor awarded annually to one student from each school or college. In this role, Jae represented the spirit of giving on campus, helping to foster a culture of gratitude and generosity among the university community.
As an ambassador, he participated in interviews, photoshoots, and campus-wide outreach initiatives, including the review and approval of donor communications. His efforts played a role in inspiring philanthropic support and expanding equitable opportunities for current and future Syracuse students.
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Jae Bin Lee served as a Global Ambassador for Syracuse Abroad, a role designated for alumni of the program who demonstrate a strong appreciation for cross-cultural experiences and a passion for global education. As an ambassador, he encouraged fellow students to pursue international study opportunities, sharing insights from his own transformative experiences abroad and promoting the value of cultural exchange in both personal and professional growth.
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Jae Bin Lee was involved in Living Learning Communities at Syracuse University, a collaborative initiative between the divisions of Academic Affairs and the Student Experience. These residential programs support incoming students in both their academic and social transitions to university life. Through his participation, Jae contributed to fostering inclusive, supportive environments that enhance student success and build lasting peer connections within the campus community.
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
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Jae Bin Lee is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the largest design organization in the world dedicated to transforming the practice of architecture. AIA advocates for a zero-carbon, resilient, healthy, and equitable built environment for all. His affiliation with AIA reflects his commitment to advancing sustainability and justice through architectural practice.
Credential ID: 40867864
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Jae Bin Lee is a member of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), a global organization representing over 15,000 members across 50 countries. IIDA champions the commercial interior design profession by supporting design professionals, educators, students, and industry affiliates. The association embraces design as a universal language—one that is inclusive, emotional, intellectual, and a force for equity and change.
As part of this global community, Jae Bin’s voice contributes to a collective effort to create a more compassionate and equitable built environment. His membership underscores his commitment to impactful, socially conscious design.
Credential ID: 098943
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Jae Bin Lee is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), a leading professional association that brings together interior designers, educators, industry leaders, and students dedicated to using design to enhance the human experience across all environments—where people live, work, play, and heal.
ASID fosters interdisciplinary collaboration across design specialties, including workplace, healthcare, retail, hospitality, education, institutional, and residential sectors. Jae Bin’s membership reflects his dedication to human-centered design and his commitment to advancing the profession through innovation and collaboration.
Credential ID: 2055558
CAPABILITIES
