James F. Kerestes [RA, LEED AP BD+C] is the founder and principal of blok+WERK studio, an interdisciplinary research lab in the field of architecture and design.
James has a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Syracuse University and a Master of Science in Architecture degree from Pratt Institute. He has taught digital media and emergent technologies at Pratt Institute, Princeton University, and the University of Pennsylvania.
In addition to academia, James is a registered architect in the state of Pennsylvania and has been working professionally in the Philadelphia area since 2003.
blok+WERK studio, Philadelphia, PA, US, Founder
blok+WERK is an interdisciplinary research initiative founded by James F. Kerestes. The studio is focused on computational form generation that is informed by the analysis of natural systems. The experimental projects are rooted in simulating and processing the inherent material logic and mass customization found in biological systems for the use of generating an architectural approach to building.
Ball State University, Muncie, IN, US, Design Innovation Fellow
Currently pursuing research interests while teaching Graduate and Undergraduate courses in the College of Architecture and Planning.
University of Pennsylvania School of Design, Philadelphia, PA, US, Lecturer
Studio assistant for post-professional graduate design course (Ferda Kolatan studio).
Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, US, Digital Media Assistant
Developed and conducted workshops aimed at teaching specific emergent technologies for students in architectural design studios.
University of Pennsylvania School of Design, Philadelphia, PA, US, Visual Studies Instructor
Instructor for graduate level course aimed at investigating both the technical and emotive aspects of drawing with digital tools.
