Ep 122 - Designing for Humanity: A Conversation with Kevin Kennon

from Architecture, Design & Photography · host Trent Bell

In this conversation, Trent and Kevin explore the multifaceted relationship between design, architecture, and human experience. They discuss how design serves as a storytelling medium, the emotional impact of spaces, and the cultural reflections inherent in architecture. The dialogue also touches on societal issues, the role of architects in fostering community, and the importance of understanding cultural differences. Kevin emphasizes the need for optimism and collaboration in addressing contemporary challenges, while also reflecting on the interconnectedness of society and the potential for future growth through shared experiences.Kevin Kennon is an internationally renowned architect with over 40 years of experience, specializing in environmentally sustainable and innovative design. As the founder and CEO of Beyond Zero DDC Inc., Kevin leads the development of zero-carbon emission luxury eco-resorts in remote wilderness locations worldwide, merging design excellence with ecological responsibility. His extensive portfolio includes projects like the 1.5 million square foot Barclays North American Headquarters, the Rodin Museum in Seoul, and multiple award-winning Bloomingdale’s stores. Additionally, he led United Architects, a finalist in the prestigious World Trade Center design competition, further solidifying his impact on architectural innovation. Kevin’s expertise spans adaptive reuse, urban planning, and large-scale developments, with projects featured in the permanent collection of MoMA, New York. He has earned over 40 international design awards and is a sought-after thought leader, contributing to discussions on urban development, climate change, and sustainable architecture. His work extends beyond architecture; as an expert witness and lecturer at leading institutions like Yale and Columbia, he brings a multidisciplinary approach to his craft.More from Kevin Kennon: Website: https://www.kdcaia.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pkk2418/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinkennonarchitect/ More from us: Website: www.adppodcast.com Instagram: http://instagram.com/adppod_

What this episode covers

In this conversation, Trent and Kevin Kennon explore the multifaceted relationship between design, architecture, and human experience. They discuss how design serves as a storytelling medium, the emotional impact of spaces, and the cultural reflections inherent in architecture. The dialogue also touches on societal issues, the role of architects in fostering community, and the importance of understanding cultural differences. Kevin emphasizes the need for optimism and collaboration in addressing contemporary challenges, while also reflecting on the interconnectedness of society and the potential for future growth through shared experiences.

NOW PLAYING

Ep 122 - Designing for Humanity: A Conversation with Kevin Kennon

0:00 1:28:25

1×

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

Share this episode

Similar Episodes

Introducing: Sonic the Hedgehog Presents: The Chaotix Casefiles

Apr 21, 2026 ·26m

What Happens When AI Steals Your Life's Work? Inside r/ArtistHate

Sep 17, 2025 ·19m

Creative Careers in the AI Era — Who Adapts, Who Struggles, and What Comes Next

Jun 11, 2025 ·25m

Create Stunning AI Visuals - No Design Degree Required

Jun 4, 2025 ·29m

Why Does AI Writing Sound... Like That Intern Nobody Wants to Mentor?

May 28, 2025 ·36m

Are You Still Prompting Like It's 2023? Advanced AI Communication for Creatives - Part 2

May 21, 2025 ·22m

Similar Podcasts

Destiny Architecture® Meditations Heather Larson Bring your mediation practice into the Valueverse. The Truth and Legend Podcast Truth and Legend Productions The Truth and Legend Podcast is a companion to the YouTube channel. We discuss wildlife photography and cinematography, experiences in the field, and the success or defeats growing our YouTube channel. Take the Leap Colleen Biggs When was the last time you took a leap of faith trusting that everything is going to work out? Do you crave growth, or are you merely content with the status quo? If you want more out of your life, out of your career, and out of your relationships, you are in the right place. It's time for you to step into the Spotlight to expand your influence and attract the right clients. Your Host, Colleen Biggs, will expose the actions you need to take, through the experiences and interviews of our guests, so you no longer are sitting on the sidelines, but that you are finally taking an active role in defining the design of your life rather than living it by default. We will be interviewing elite leaders that will share their greatest regrets, successes, and how they did it! Week after week you will learn all about how you too can take the leap of faith, trust in yourself and stop living a life only by default. Talent Stacker Jonathan Mendonsa Data suggests that the average cost of college in 2019 was $122,000 while the entry-level salary for a college graduate at the same time period was 50,000. ROI is a distant memory.hopefully for that that $122,000 the student graduates with a degree and possibly some skills. The reality is, as most individuals approach graduation, they realize that ultimately what they have to prove to their employers that they actually have the skills and since you don't need a degree or permission to start building skills, let’s document the stories and best practices of individuals that crushed the game by focusing on building their skills and their talent stack. Maybe you feel like you don’t have a talent stack. What are the skills you need to be able to generate an above-median income and when paired with interest-led learning this talent stack will allow you to work towards financial independence and design your future?If you're up for this challenge to go from no Talent Stack to designing you

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Architecture, Design & Photography?

This episode is 1 hour and 28 minutes long.

When was this Architecture, Design & Photography episode published?

This episode was published on October 24, 2025.

What is this episode about?

Can I download this Architecture, Design & Photography episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.

URL copied to clipboard!