BEN BALLENTINE
PRINCIPAL ARCHITECT
AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS (AIA)
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURAL REGISTRATION BOARDS (NCARB)
Having been raised by a family of realtors and Architecture enthusiasts, Ben Ballentine was destined to wind up working with homes and buildings in some facet. He realized that his passion was not in buying or selling a building, but in finding its flaws and coming up with creative design solutions. Having spent his youth wandering the spaces of hundreds of homes, he developed a second nature understanding of space, scale and form. That knowledge paired with over a decade of experience working with the best architects in Los Angeles gave Ben a unique style and focused attention to detail. Since launching the firm in 2015, he and his studio set out to deliver a comprehensive design approach and hands-on collaborative coordination, which continues to result in successful projects and a growing list of happy clients.
DANIELLE SHAFFNER
STUDIO DIRECTOR
AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS (AIA)
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURAL REGISTRATION BOARDS (NCARB)
Danielle is a Pacific Northwest native whose commitment to well-crafted details and sustainable design was fostered at the University of Idaho, while earning her Masters of Architecture. Danielle began her architectural career in Seattle working on Biotech & Higher Education projects while at Perkins + Will, and from there, slowly migrated down the West Coast. Her next stop was San Francisco, working with pre-fab innovator Project Frog, before landing in Los Angeles. Next, Danielle successfully managed design and construction of more than one million square feet of tenant improvement workplace for clients such as Microsoft and Stanford University with Culver City firm Clive Wilkinson Architects, work that won multiple design awards and was featured in Contract, Azure and Interior Design magazine. After 12 years in the commercial realm, Danielle joined the team at BAS in the role of Project Architect. She helps Ben to oversee all projects, working closely with clients, contractors, and consultant teams to realize design visions. Outside of the office, Danielle is a proud mom to two wonderful kids and can be found enjoying the beach and the city's various dog parks with her family.
AKASH RAGDE
PROJECT MANAGER
Akash, originally from Maharashtra, India, has always been passionate about architecture and the cinematic world. He discovered his interest in these fields at an early age and decided to pursue his education in architecture. He attended the Academy of Architecture in Mumbai, India, where he completed his Bachelor's Degree in Architecture. After gaining a good foundation, Akash decided to further his education and move to Los Angeles to study and receive his Master's Degree in Architecture from UCLA. While studying, he gained hands-on experience in various architectural projects and learned about different styles and techniques. With his education and experience, Akash hopes to create unique and innovative architectural designs that will inspire others.
JOCY PLIETEZ
ARCHITECTURAL ASSOCIATE
Jocy Pleitez is an architectural designer with a passion for crafting thoughtful, artful spaces. Jocy, a first-generation graduate from Woodbury University with honors, grew up in the South Bay of Los Angeles, surrounded by a love for art and design. With a family legacy in construction - she has always been drawn to the intersection of architecture and creativity. Her approach to architecture is influenced by her love for art, beauty, and travel, having explored diverse cultures and built environments across cities she's explored. With a strong work ethic and deep commitment to design excellence, Jocy brings a fresh perspective to Ballentine Architects, helping to bring drawings to life.
ALINA PETROVA
ARCHITECTURAL ASSOCIATE
Growing up in Ukraine, Alina developed an eye for Ukrainian architecture and discovered an affinity for architecture more broadly. She took her rapid growing interest and turned it into a Bachelor's degree in Architecture in 2010 and in 2011 she received her Master's degree in Architecture at Kyiv National University of Construction and Architecture. She has spent the last five year working on various projects in the residential, commercial and hospitality sectors. Alina's expansive background equips her with industry knowledge that guide her designs as she seeks out opportunities to think outside the box when creating innovative and modern spaces. Alina looks forward to refining her skills as she continues her career in Southern California residential development. Alina enjoys traveling around the world ,explore new culture and architecture. On her personal time, she likes to be outside for different activities as like riding a bike, hiking, running etc.
KATE BOWERS
ARCHITECTURAL ASSOCIATE
Since embarking on her educational journey in architecture, Kate has always envisioned a career in residential design. She believes that a home is more than just a physical structure; it is a sacred space that offers self-expression, safety, comfort, and a repository of memories. This belief fuels her passion for creating environments that enhance individuals' quality of life and well-being. Having recently graduated from the architecture program at The University of Southern California, Kate is eager to gain hands-on experience and learn from talented professionals in the field. She is thankful for the opportunities that working at a small office has provided her, allowing her to engage deeply with various aspects of each project and to have a hand in the design process.
EVAN KOESTER
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Evan leverages his 12+ years of experience in the architecture industry to enhance the firm’s operational efficiency and structural organization. With a strong focus on optimizing architectural practice management, he plays a key role in both the new business development and long-term strategic direction of the firm. Evan emphasizes the importance of soft skills and a human-centric approach to employee management. He is dedicated to cultivating a strong firm culture, ensuring that team members feel supported, motivated, and empowered to perform at their best. His commitment to fostering a positive and productive work environment reflects his dedication to the success and well-being of the BAS team. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Evan spends his free time with photography, golfing, or learning a new creative skill.