Business Details
38 Years
experience
Award-Winning Residential Architecture & Landscape Design
KAA Design Group is an award-winning residential architecture and landscape design firm based in Los Angeles, California. With over 36 years of experience, we specialize in creating site-responsive, thoughtfully designed homes that integrate seamlessly with their natural surroundings. Our multidisciplinary team combines modernist principles with classical traditions through our Evens Architects boutique studio, serving discerning clients nationally and internationally.Recognized with numerous AIA awards and featured in publications like Architectural Digest, our collaborative design process prioritizes authenticity, beauty, and the elevation of everyday living experiences. We maintain leadership in Southern California's design community while advancing sustainable practices through initiatives like the Case Study 2.0 Program.
Services
Residential Design
Landscape Architecture
Custom Homes
Traditional Architecture
Site-Responsive Design
Sustainable Architecture
Project Management
Design Technology
Interior Architecture
Case Study Houses
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We have won multiple AIA awards for residential design excellence
- Our integrated architecture and landscape approach creates seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces
- Evens Architects boutique studio offers classical design expertise within our firm
- 36+ years of experience with high-profile residential commissions globally
- Featured in Architectural Digest and other leading design publications
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects (AIA)
Services
Residential Design
KAA Design Group specializes in creating custom residential spaces that harmonize with their natural environments. Our approach combines modernist principles with classical traditions to deliver unique, site-specific solutions. Clients benefit from 36+ years of expertise in crafting luxury homes that prioritize functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic excellence.
Landscape Architecture
Our integrated landscape architecture services create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living spaces. We design environments that enhance property value while maintaining ecological balance. The team's expertise includes sustainable planting strategies, fire-resistant material selection, and climate-responsive outdoor room creation.
Case Study Houses
Through the Case Study 2.0 Program, we offer innovative, pre-approved home designs that balance affordability with architectural excellence. These adaptable residences incorporate fire-resistant materials, climate-responsive strategies, and flexible floorplans. Our designs maintain mid-century modern principles while addressing contemporary sustainability requirements.
Traditional Architecture
Evens Architects, our dedicated classical design studio, specializes in historically inspired residential architecture. Services include proportion-based design, ornamental detailing, and traditional material selection. We preserve architectural heritage while adapting classical principles for modern living requirements and climate considerations.
Design Technology
Our design technology team implements advanced BIM workflows to enhance project efficiency and accuracy. Services include digital modeling, construction documentation, and design visualization. This technology-driven approach improves collaboration across disciplines while maintaining our commitment to design excellence and craftsmanship.
People
Grant Kirkpatrick
Founding Partner
Third-generation Californian and FAIA architect with 36+ years of experience. Founded KAA Design in 1988 and developed award-winning residential projects for notable clients. Teaches at USC and serves on multiple design councils.
Duan Tran
Partner
Licensed architect with expertise in strategic planning and design leadership. Oversees firm growth initiatives and contributes to major residential projects. Serves on the Executive Cabinet of Leaders of Design and A+D Museum board.
Erik Evens
Partner
Classical architecture specialist and ICAA Fellow with 25+ years of experience. Founded Evens Architects studio and lectures extensively on traditional design principles. Combines historical knowledge with modern sustainability practices.
Todd Paolillo
Associate Principal
25-year KAA veteran with expertise in modernist design and post-disaster reconstruction. Leads design initiatives and mentors emerging architects. Certified Post-Disaster Safety Assessor with experience in fire rebuild projects.
Michael McGowan
Associate Principal
Landscape architect with focus on blurring boundaries between built and natural environments. Teaches at USC and contributes to major residential and commercial projects. Combines Japanese design principles with contemporary landscape technology.
Questions
What architectural styles does KAA Design Group specialize in?
We offer both modernist and classical design through our main firm and Evens Architects studio. Our expertise spans contemporary, Mediterranean, traditional, and site-specific hybrid styles.
Do you work on projects outside Southern California?
While rooted in Los Angeles, we complete residential commissions nationally and internationally, adapting our site-responsive approach to diverse climates and cultural contexts.
What sustainability practices do you incorporate?
Our designs feature passive solar strategies, local material sourcing, water-efficient landscaping, and fire-resistant construction. We participate in the Case Study 2.0 Program promoting sustainable, pre-approved home designs.
How does the design process work?
We begin with client visioning sessions, followed by site analysis, conceptual design, and detailed development. Our collaborative process includes regular reviews and integrates both digital modeling and traditional drawing techniques.
Are you involved in community initiatives?
Yes, we actively contribute to design education through USC partnerships and serve on architectural review boards. Our Case Study 2.0 participation supports accessible, sustainable housing solutions.
