Who we are
Kevin Kelly Architects is a London based architecture and design studio merging traditional architectural principles with innovative design approaches to create spaces that inspire and resonate. Standing at the intersection of creativity and technology, employing advanced computational design techniques to create architectural designs that are as emotionally impactful as they are aesthetically pleasing.
We believe that architecture is more than just creating buildings; it's about creating experiences and connections. At Kevin Kelly Architects, we strive to challenge the ordinary, push the boundaries of conventional design, and in doing so, leave a lasting legacy in the architectural world. Every project we undertake is an opportunity to inspire, engage, and elevate human experiences.
Our team is a collective of creative minds, each bringing unique perspectives and skills to the table. We foster a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, empowering each member to contribute to our mission and grow professionally.
Quality and innovation are the pillars of our work. We strive to exceed expectations with every project, delivering unique and meaningful designs that reflect our distinct style and vision. Our commitment to our craft extends beyond design; we also place a high value on our relationships with our clients, ensuring their vision and needs are at the forefront of our designs.
Kevin Kelly
An accomplished architect with a wealth of experience, Kevin is the driving force behind Kevin Kelly Architects. With a Bachelor's degree in Architecture (BA Hons) and a Master's degree in Architecture (M.Arch), Kevin is a registered architect with ARB (Architects Registration Board) and a member of RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects).
Having worked for renowned practices such as Heatherwick Studio and BDP, Kevin has honed his expertise over a span of more than 15 years. Throughout his career, he has been involved in prestigious projects, including a suite of alterations to The Royal Albert Hall, the complete refurbishment and extension of The Institute of Engineering and Technology, and the remarkable creation of an 'inhabitable pinecone' for the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew.
Kevin has gained recognition both nationally and internationally. His work has been showcased in prominent exhibitions, such as the Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition and a solo exhibition at the Barbican Centre. Furthermore, his projects have garnered significant attention from the press and have been featured in industry journals.
Storytelling lies at the heart of Kevin's design philosophy. He believes in the power of creating meaningful narratives within architectural spaces by seamlessly integrating digital technology. His innovative approach to design allows him to craft immersive experiences that captivate and engage visitors on a deep emotional level.
In addition to his practice, Kevin actively contributes to the architectural community. He serves as a visiting critic at the Bartlett School of Architecture and undertakes RIBA Part 3 examinations. As an external examiner, he brings his expertise to various schools of architecture, including the Bartlett at UCL, UCA Canterbury, and Kingston University.
Kevin’s dedication to creating meaningful, narrative-driven designs, combined with his extensive experience and involvement in the architectural field, makes him a leading figure in the industry. Through Kevin Kelly Architects, he continues to push the boundaries of architectural design, shaping a more inspiring and innovative future.
What We Do
At Kevin Kelly Architects, our work is driven by our passion for ideas and our commitment to creating meaningful and innovative designs. We believe in harnessing the power of nature, light, materiality, tradition, and innovation to shape captivating spaces that tell stories and inspire curiosity.
Listening attentively to our clients, we embark on a journey of exploration, guided by our insatiable curiosity. We dare to ask unconventional questions: "Can we build a rainbow?" "Can we sit inside a pine cone?" These inquiries fuel our creativity and push the boundaries of what is possible in architecture.
Our design process is rooted in careful consideration and deep understanding. We use our skills and expertise to craft new solutions that blend imagination and practicality. Our concept design is uninhibited, allowing us to think freely and envision unique possibilities.
Embracing innovative technology, we bring our designs to life with meticulous attention to detail and efficiency. We believe that a high-design concept can be made affordable and buildable without compromising inspiration. We strive for rigour and precision in every aspect of our work.
In every project, we integrate essential components such as accessibility, sustainability, social inclusivity, and well-being. These elements are not mere afterthoughts but intrinsic aspects woven into the fabric of our designs. We approach each project holistically, ensuring that our solutions are well-rounded and purposeful.
Throughout our journey, we maintain a strong focus on meaning, seeking to create spaces that resonate deeply with individuals and communities. We understand that architecture has the power to influence emotions and shape experiences. Our designs are driven by a commitment to leaving a lasting impact, fostering connection, and enhancing the human experience.
With our dedication to ideas, our embrace of innovative technology, and our commitment to holistic and meaningful design, Kevin Kelly Architects strives to be at the forefront of the architectural industry, pushing boundaries and redefining what is possible.
How We Do It
At Kevin Kelly Architects, we believe in establishing a robust intellectual framework for our designs by gathering a diverse range of design drivers. We draw inspiration from nature, literature, site context, social context, and history. This cross-pollination of influences, both intuitive and research-led, allows us to carry out in-depth investigations and create a rich tapestry of design drivers tailored to meet each client's unique needs.
Gather the ingredients
Make the complex simple
Accessibility and clarity are fundamental principles in our design approach. We are committed to presenting complex ideas in a clear and simple manner, ensuring that our designs and processes are easily understood by all stakeholders. By demonstrating a holistic understanding of the subject matter, we invite our clients and wider project stakeholders to join us on the design journey. This emphasis on simplicity and clarity leads to efficiency and high value, providing our clients with innovative yet cost-effective solutions.
Explore
We embrace curiosity and the spirit of exploration in our design process. Once the building blocks of the design have been gathered, we embark on a journey of curiosity, allowing for accidents and surprises to shape the design development. We believe that risk is an opportunity for innovation rather than something to be eliminated. By testing our ideas and embracing risk, we achieve a balance and present our clients with a range of options that push the boundaries of what is possible.
Prototype
We follow the RIBA plan of work and place a strong emphasis on detail during the concept design stage (RIBA stage 02). This enables us to engage with specialists and develop prototypes during the detail design stage (RIBA stage 03). Our experience has taught us that physical prototypes are highly effective in controlling quality and cost during construction. By allowing our clients to touch and interact with the design, we can address any doubts and ensure a high level of confidence in the final product.
Interrogate
Collaboration and coordination with specialists and the wider consultant team are key aspects of our design process. We meticulously collate all technical elements, including drawings, 3D models, prototypes, and specifications, into comprehensive documentation. This rigorous interrogation of our technical work ensures that our details are robust and form a solid foundation for the tender process. Our focus on fostering positive relationships with contractors promotes collaboration on-site, resulting in a seamless construction process for our clients.
Deliver
We believe in the power of three-dimensional exploration in our design process, utilizing a combination of Building Information Modelling (BIM), digital programming, and physical prototypes. By leveraging physical and visual aids, we clarify communication and guide contractors and other disciplines on-site, minimizing the potential for misunderstandings and ensuring the delivery of a high-quality finished product.
