Architecture, Features, LA Iconoclasts

Perfecting a Practice: The Good Works of Architect Kenneth David Lee

Los Angelenos live in somewhat of an urban wild, where areas resplendent in nature are coupled with highly developed environments, often under duress. The unstable foundations provided by many hill, canyon and mountain topographies might challenge even the most sure-footed among us. Throwing in a propensity for frequent fires, landslides and potentially deadly earthquakes makes L.A. seem downright dangerous. If Southern California’s weather were not the balm it is, this city would no doubt be (a bit?) less populated. But its millions of residents are stalwarts. It is here, in a city full of such contradictions, that esteemed architect Kenneth David Lee situates his practice. A believer in and adherent of site-specificity with regard to each project undertaken by his firm Kenneth David Lee Architects, he has also made it his business to acquire invaluable knowledge about disaster preparedness. Having been instrumental in creating crucial disaster relief procedures for the SoCal area, Lee has devoted countless hours to the restoration of homes damaged or lost in the 1994 Northridge earthquake. In his firm’s two decades of practice, Lee, along with his long-term design associates, has strived to develop and provide architecture for “those most in need.”

This mandate has resulted in a vision that ensures the livability, structure, and surrounding landscape of a residence while also creating timeless homes in contextual settings. With projects as diverse as his clients, Lee’s impressive portfolio proves his firm regards each commission they receive as a challenge to the imagination that produces the diverse and distinctive properties they are known for. 

Fabrik is delighted to share this insightful interview with Kenneth David Lee.

Your firm’s eclectic projects encompass residential renovations ranging from Mediterranean estates to mid-century modern homes to cutting edge contemporary structures. You’ve achieved recognition for over 500 residences, as well as a variety of commercial spaces, all distinguished by thoughtful, versatile design. In a “fickle” city like Los Angeles, you’ve cultivated impressive long-term relationships with clients that include Steve Vai, Warren Beatty and Annette Benning, and Howard Bragman, among others.

Fabrik: What was it about architecture that first captivated you?

Kenneth David Lee [KDL]: The intertwining of art and engineering. I am deeply passionate about art, however you might say that I was intimidated by the lack of structure within the art world. I was drawn to the constraints of a built structure, and I am able to use my engineering background to carry out my artistic vision with confidence.

Fabrik: Prior to opening Kenneth David Lee Architects twenty years ago, you studied and worked with Edward Niles, noted for some of the most innovative glass and steel structures atop Southern California hillsides in recent years. How did that relationship inform and influence your own vision of architecture?

KDL: My experience working with Edward Niles made me conscious of the fact that no matter who my clients are, there are budgetary restraints and these must be respected. My opportunity with Edward has had a significant effect on the way I manage my own firm as well as the way that I cultivate my long-term client relationships.

Fabrik: Are there any current LA artists or art venues that you find compelling?

KDL: There are so many art galleries that come and go. The Museum of Jurassic Technology is a great place. And the Center For Land Use Interpretation, right next door. I think those two places are some of the diamonds in the rough as far as LA. But things pop up all the time that I don’t even know about, but I’ve got my ear to the ground.

Fabrik: How does the physical landscape and mythology of Los Angeles affect your sensibility?

KDL: Los Angeles is a city of great diversity in terms of its landscape. I enjoy the opportunity to work in different environments and ecosystems on a daily basis. Practicing in this city has really trained me to see all projects as being site specific.

Fabrik: What is the biggest challenge you face as an architect in Los Angeles?

KDL: Obviously at this moment the economy is greatly affecting our industry, however with specific regard to Los Angeles, I find the physical constraints to be most challenging. Having built over 500 homes throughout Southern California, I continue to encounter precarious sites to which I need to adjust my designs. The area’s varying topography, wildfires, seismic activity, landslides and other conditions must be considered at all times. This challenge has inspired me to become an expert in natural disaster prevention and renovations.

Fabrik: What are some local architectural landmarks you are inspired by?

KDL: The Wilshire Boulevard Temple has been extremely influential to me since my childhood. I spent days counting the squares on the temple’s dome, discovering the technical and mathematical aspects of a structure. Other landmarks by which I am inspired include the Grauman’s Chinese and Egyptian Theaters in Hollywood, the May Company Building, the Bullocks Wilshire and the Disney Concert Hall. These are classic examples of buildings and architecture that only seem to exist in Los Angeles.

Fabrik: Who are some artists you are influenced by?

KDL: Vasa Mihich, who works with Plexiglas to create contemporary sculptural pieces. He was an instructor of mine who had a tremendous influence on my work. I am very influenced by furniture designers as well. Classic furniture pieces such as Eames and Mies van der Rohe chairs are multi-functional. They become sculptural stand-alone elements in the home that are not only practical, but are also pieces of art.

Fabrik: Does fashion inform your design sensibility?

KDL: I try to go against the grain whenever I am approached with designing a home. I want each residence that I design to be a truly distinctive property that reflects the client’s personality and spirit, much like a couture designer dressing a celebrity for the Academy Awards. In addition, as we consistently work with various fabrics and colors in the design process, fashion definitely lends us a sense of appropriate combinations and styles.

Fabrik: Where do you most enjoy hearing live music in Los Angeles?

KDL: I enjoy going to the Hollywood Bowl. In addition to great acoustics and a spectacular location, it is a treasure that is unique to Los Angeles. To witness a performance in the venue is to be surrounded by art, architecture and history.

Fabrik: As an architect with a thriving practice, you still find many ways to give back to the community, one of which is designing affordable housing on a pro-bono basis. How essential is green design and sustainable architecture to developing affordable housing?

KDL: Because the upfront costs of sustainable design can be cost-prohibitive, many times it is overlooked when designing affordable housing. In this world it is essential to consider green design in all housing, including affordable. Design becomes critical to the process because our team can help source materials and incorporate sustainable elements that will save money for the end users.

Fabrik: Your daughter Catie Lee is an accomplished landscape designer who works in your firm and also has her own landscape design firm. Do you have any advice for children of architects with similar aspirations?

KDL: The best advice I could give parents to be open-minded and give credence to their children’s ideas. It is essential to be supportive without being overbearing to allow your children to find their own way. Catie chose a career for which she has a passion; fortunately for me, her career is closely intertwined with our business and both she and our firm have benefited significantly from this experience.

Fabrik: In addition to your architecture practice, you preside over a construction company and invest in real estate. Your firm’s services include interior design, furniture selection and landscape design. What are some ways in which clients benefit from hiring a firm doing both architectural design and construction?

KDL: As a design/build company under one roof, we have the capacity to provide our clients with a wealth of services. It’s similar to using both sides of the brain (left and right) simultaneously. There is no dominant side because we have both the logical (left) and artistic (right) all under the same roof working together. Therefore, the process becomes more fluid and we can implement changes through less rigorous methods.

Words Aparna Bakhle-Ellis
Photography Erhard Pfeiffer