Originally from Winnipeg, Man., Ben Checkwitch (BEDS (TUNS)’97, MArch(FP)’99) developed a fascination with architecture while working on construction sites, which eventually lead him to pursue a degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Manitoba. After moving to British Columbia, he entered the field of Naval Architecture working as a draughtsman designing yachts. It was in British Columbia that he further honed his construction skills while building a home on a small and relatively remote Gulf Island.

From Norway to NYC

After earning his Masters of Architecture from Dalhousie University, and apprenticing in Oslo, Norway with the architectural firm Narud Stokke Wiig, Ben began his professional practice in New York with architectural firms Rafael Viñoly Architects and later Gluckman Mayner Architects. It was here that he developed his expertise in the detailing of glass and curtainwall systems as well as the design of museum and gallery spaces. During this time Ben contributed to prominent projects including The Bronx County Hall of Justice, The Austin Museum of Art, The Museum of Contemporary Art in San Diego, a private gallery/studio for the artist Richard Serra, and several high-end residential projects.

In 2002, he founded Ben Checkwitch Design (BCD), a Manhattan-based firm that designed a broad spectrum of residential, commercial, retail and furniture projects. His work during this period earned him distinction in I.D. Magazine’s Annual Design Review and recognition form the Architectural League of New York, where he has lectured and exhibited as a winner of the Young Architects Forum.

Winning awards on the West Coast

Later, Ben began working with former classmate David Poiron and in 2012 they formed Checkwitch Poiron Architects Inc. With offices in Vancouver and Nanaimo they have completed a variety of institutional, commercial and residential projects including the Nanaimo Cruise Ship Terminal which earned multiple awards including a citation from the North American Wood Design Awards and Best Commercial Building in British Columbia from the Canadian Wood Council.

Ben is a Member of the Architectural Institute of British Columbia (AIBC) and currently resides in Vancouver, British Columbia.