JENNIFER BANZON

Bio:

Jennifer Banzon is a graduate student in Architecture at Kean University. A first-generation immigrant from the Philippines, she experienced firsthand the effects of rapid urbanization on her home country's socio-economic and political landscape, which has shaped her architecture studies and future aspirations. Her work at Kean focuses on the relationship between urbanization, privatization, and socio-economic shifts in cities and how these factors impact different communities.

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How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?

I was an artist that was forced into architecture only to find out that my feet pushed me in a direction that I truly belonged in. I followed my instincts.

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What do you do?

I’m currently in my final year of grad school and also working as a graduate researcher in Kean University’s architecture department, focusing on a revitalization project for a historic site in Trenton, NJ.

 

What excites you in the work you do?

Architecture has so many interesting new things to learn-- from little details to large scale master plans, I love it all. I especially enjoy layering complex systems and finding simple solutions. It's mastering simplicity that gets me the most.

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Who or what inspires you professionally?

I'm inspired by my peers and the people that I meet everyday. I think as you grow into this profession, you find yourself listening more and being the voice of the people you are trying to represent. It's humbling and inspiring to learn from people.

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What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?

I think having the courage to go back to grad school was a big achievement for me. I'm so proud of my growth as a professional and person. I'm forever grateful that I took that step.

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Featured Project Name: 

Tapestry

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Featured Project Location: 

Recife, Brazil

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Featured Project Completion Date: 

Unbuilt

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Role in Featured Project: 

Designer

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Featured Project Description:

Tapestry, is centered around the idea of a complex woven together with the rest of the community fabric. Throughout the complex I created flexible, adaptable housing clusters that contextually connect to the neighborhood, ensuring accessibility and fostering social cohesion. By integrating passive design principles & community spaces, the goal was to create a sustainable, inclusive environment that honors Recife’s culture & history.

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Photography Credit:

Rendered by JBanzon