Ben established Kennedy Architecture LLC with the desire to design elegant, quality architecture. He has previously worked for architecture firms in both Chicago, IL and Annapolis, MD before branching out on his own. Ben received his Bachelor of Architecture from The Pennsylvania State University where he studied abroad for a semester at the Rome, Italy campus, experiencing the architecture and culture of one of the world's oldest cities. He later earned his Master of Architecture from the Illinois Institute of Technology with a focus in vertical urban farming.

During his professional career, Ben's experience has encompassed several new construction and renovation projects. He has managed varying project types including master planning, single and multiple family housing, banks, library, commercial renovation, parking garages, and a large high-rise mixed-use complex, which involved Chicago's Planning Department, Metra, Department of Bridges, Parks and Recreation, and CDOT approvals.

While practicing as an architect, Ben returned to the academic realm to obtain his Master of Architecture degree. As a continuation of his thesis research, Ben has an ongoing interest in the concept of vertical urban farming. Part of his research contributed to Fast Forward: Vertical Farm Project, an exhibit at the Museum of Science & Industry in Chicago. In June 2008, Ben was interviewed by CNN International for his practical applications of vertical urban farming within an adaptive reuse of abandoned urban warehouses. And soon, his research thesis book will become part of the USDA's Alternative Farming Systems Information Center at the National Agricultural Library. Ben has recently assisted others in researching and giving insight to potentially converting a structure into a functional vertical farming facility within Chicago.

Ben is currently renovating his 1918 2-flat, which he resides in on Chicago's north side.

Education
Bachelor of Architecture - The Pennsylvania State University
Master of Architecture - Illinois Institute of Technology

Professional Affiliations
Registered Architect in Illinois (IL 001.019828)
NCARB Certificate Holder
Windy City Habitat for Humanity; Construction Committee, Chicago, IL
Northcenter Chamber of Commerce; Board Director, Chicago, IL
Lincoln Square Chamber of Commerce, Chicago, IL
U.N.I.T.E. Civic Association, Chicago, IL