Philadelphia Business Journal names Benita one of its 2025 Women of Influence
Benita was selected among hundreds of female business leaders by the Philadelphia Business Journal to be one of the 2025 Women of Influence honorees, recognizing businesswomen making a mark on Greater Philadelphia.
Read Benita’s profile below and learn more on the Philadelphia Business Journal website.
Benita Cooper is an architect and designer whose work blends creativity, precision and a respect for history.
She founded Benita Cooper Design in 2008, and today her firm works on everything from residential and retail spaces to historic preservation and small business branding.
Based in Philadelphia and Haddonfield, New Jersey, Cooper is licensed in three states and often leads complex projects for townships, institutions and homeowners. Her work has earned recognition from state legislatures and design publications, but she’s also known for mentoring young designers and advocating for intergenerational connection.
In Cherry Hill, New Jersey, she holds the official title of Historic Property Architect. In 2018, she co-founded Coop Forge, a custom furniture and architectural fixture studio that now also handles branding and signage for Benita Cooper Design’s most prominent commercial projects. She teaches, speaks on panels and runs youth workshops through local organizations.
In 2009, she started The Best Day of My Life So Far, a nonprofit that helps older adults share life stories to combat isolation.
Industry: Architecture, interior design
Years in current role: 17 years
Originally from: Born in Seattle, grew up in Hong Kong and Seattle
Education: B.A., architecture, and B.A., art, University of Washington; M.A., architecture, Harvard University Graduate School of Design
My proudest career accomplishment so far: Having two rigorous careers — architecture and older adult mental health — that together form a multi-faceted, authentic expression of who I am.
My secret to success: The possibility of making a difference in people’s lives drives me so fiercely it dissolves ordinary fears of failure.
The most influential person on my career: My late grandmother, whose friendship inspired my nonprofit, The Best Day of My Life So Far, taught me that truths can transcend hardship, and strength and joy can coexist.
How I’m using my influence to impact change: The reason for my architecture work and my nonprofit work is the same: vessels for humanity in a disconnected world.
A word that best describes me: Evolving
A favorite book, podcast, or TV show: "White Teeth" by Zadie Smith
For fun, I like to: Apprentice at my local auto repair shop and model for luxury/high-design/fashion brands that empower women who lead.
— Profile by Lynn Stock