Jae Bin Lee
Associate AIA, Associate IIDA,
ASID Allied Practitioner
Jae Bin is a dedicated designer currently pursuing a Master of Architecture (M.Arch) degree at University of Southern California, along with a Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Design.
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.
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: January 2025
ACADEMIC PROFILE
University of Southern California, M.Arch 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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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 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.
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.
Learn More > -
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