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Benjamin Wichman

Benjamin Wichman

Grand Rapids, MI

 
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About 

Employment 

Freelance Design, Grand Rapids, Freelance Designer

I have been working on graphic design projects for friends and local businesses, one UX/UI project, and a historic cottage renovation in Northern Michigan.

Jun 2021 - current
 

Studio Terpeluk, San Francisco, CA, US, Architecture Designer

+ managed a project from schematic design through construction
+ worked directly with clients on projects in all stages
+ drew and compiled permitting and construction document sets
+ submitted drawings for permitting
+ researched building, planning, and environmental health codes
+ prepared client presentations
+ edited photographs for website and publications.
+ coordinated drawings and specs with engineers, consultants, etc.
+ performed site visits
+ built presentation models

Full-stack architectural design from SD to documenting completed projects. Exhibits, high-end residential, commercial.

Mar 2018 - Jul 2021
 

The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US, Research Through Making Team Member

+ used photogrammetry software to produce 3D scans of salvaged tree bifurcations and milled the logs into 3-pointed structural joints using 5-axis CNC router.
+ created laser-cut wooden kit-of-parts scale modelling system allowing for iteration in the design phase and interactive displays at the exhibition.

Sep 2017 - Mar 2018
 

In Parallel Architects + Builders, Ann Arbor, MI, US, Architecture Designer, Builder

+ worked on various scales primarly on residential additions
+ worked through modeling, fabrication, and construction
+ prepared drawings & infographics for academic presentation
+ measured and produced 3D models of existing homes

Residential and academic Design/Build firm including fixture, millwork, and furniture design.

May 2017 - Mar 2018
 

Mathison Mathison Architects, Grand Rapids, MI, US, Design Consultant

+ built a layered topographical site model to display in lobby
+ visited construction site of current project

Dec 2016 - Dec 2016
 

CHANEL - Global Store Design, Ann Arbor, Architecture Intern

+ produced a speculative project alternative to boutiques
+ presented project to owner, president, and global teams
+ worked on CAD drawings and renderings for temp boutiques
+ attended construction meetings on-site at the 57th St. temporary boutique
+ updated and archived global project database

May 2016 - Aug 2016
 

Education 

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US, Bachelors, Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning

Architecture, Graphic Design, Philosophy, Art.

Sep 2013 - May 2017
 

Awards 

Best Architecture Portfolio, Award

+ entry to a call for submissions chosen and published in “The Best Architecture Portfolio Design”. 30 May 2017. (republished 10 January 2018, March 2019)

2019
 

R+D Awards, 1st Place

Limb, a Fantastical Take on Timber Construction:

Photogrammetry and 5-axis milling of salvaged logs, parametric load calculation and joint selection, construction of domed structure and experimental models.

2017
 

Color Theory Mural Design Contest, 1st Place

+ color theory design contest winner, worked with restaurant clients and team of painters

2015
 

Areas of Specialization 

Skills