Kevin Klein Dives Into Korean Dancheong & Ferraris: Discover Secrets of Lake Maracaibo!

With over ten years of experience in hospitality development and partnerships with renowned designers such as Kelly Wearstler and Philippe Starck, Kevin Klein had an epiphany. He realized, “I was consulting on design for the very experts I admired and drew inspiration from,” leading him to establish Kevin Klein Design in 2020.

His first project at his namesake firm was for a friend from his childhood who entrusted him with the complete design of his residence. This comprehensive task proved to be a foundational experience that continues to shape Klein’s design philosophy.

In his design practice, Klein aims to create environments that are inspiring yet his methodology is far from merely focusing on aesthetics. Holding an architecture degree from the University of Southern California, his approach is comprehensive, prioritizing structural integrity, operational efficiency, and enduring utility. His portfolio spans across hospitality, residential, and multifamily projects, each infused with a unique character.

Klein’s favorite moment in a project is the completion, where he can compare the initial state and the transformed space through before-and-after photos. This moment underscores the profound, lasting impact of his work, bringing significant satisfaction to him and his team.

This Friday, join us as we chat with Kevin Klein! He will share five sources of his inspiration and five projects that showcase his distinctive style.

What Inspires Kevin Klein

1. Gladding, McBean Ceramics Company

My collaboration with Gladding, McBean began during the restoration of the NoMad Hotel in Los Angeles, which featured essential terra-cotta elements from the 1920s era Bank of Italy building. I was captivated by the rarity of this art form; Gladding, McBean is one of just two companies in the nation still producing architectural terra cotta at such a scale. Their meticulous process of replicating historic pieces through a blend of scanning, fabrication technology, and traditional craftsmanship was enlightening.

Visiting their 150-year-old facility in Northern California was an eye-opening experience about the intricate processes of sculpting, molding, glazing, firing, and color matching that transform architectural restoration from mere replication to an act of preserving a unique material language.

2. Park Hotel Vitznau

The Park Hotel Vitznau in Switzerland captivates me with its seamless integration into its scenic lakeside setting. Established in 1903 beside Lake Lucerne, it perfectly juxtaposes the fairy-tale-like Swiss architecture with the breathtaking natural landscape. Inside, the hotel balances modern comforts with a touch of nostalgia, proving that historical charm and contemporary luxury can coexist. The setting itself plays a pivotal design role, making everything else seem complementary to the stunning views of Lake Lucerne.

3. Lake Maracaibo in Venezuela

My visit to Lake Maracaibo in 2012 left a lasting impression with its unique blend of natural elements and atmospheric phenomena. The vast lake, dense rainforest, and the frequent dramatic lightning strikes create a surreal, almost cinematic environment that continues to influence my creative vision. This destination has become a permanent fixture in my mental library of inspirational visuals.

4. Ferrari 575M Maranello

The Ferrari 575M Maranello represents a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, which appeals to my design sensibilities. Its V12 engine delivers the classic performance of an Italian grand tourer, while its design—characterized by a long hood, manual controls, and minimal technology—provides a nostalgically modern aesthetic. Its design philosophy, where form follows function in a stylized manner, resonates with me, making it a dream car to own someday.

5. Korean Dancheong

The traditional Korean art of Dancheong captivates me with its vibrant yet structured decorative patterns on architectural elements. The initial burst of colors and intricate designs gives way to an appreciation of the underlying order and discipline, embodying a design approach that balances freedom and control, making it a significant source of inspiration in my work.

Kevin Klein’s Signature Projects

1. SYRN Brand Studio

Designing the SYRN brand studio, a venture by Sydney Sweeney, was an intriguing challenge. The space needed to serve multiple functions: a workspace, a creative hub, and a brand showcase. Instead of opting for a typical showroom aesthetic, we chose a more intimate, home-like design featuring warm woods, vintage items, and sculptural elements, which subtly convey the brand’s identity through an immersive experience.

2. Walkers’ Bar and Market

The design for Walkers’ Bar and Market in Dallas was crafted to transition smoothly from a daytime market to an evening wine bar. We utilized luxurious materials like Italian woods and marble, complemented by vintage and custom pieces, to create a welcoming yet sophisticated space that feels as if it has naturally evolved over time, reflecting the unique personalities of its owners.

3. The Hollywood Roosevelt Gable & Lombard Penthouse and Johnny Grant Apartment

In renovating the iconic Hollywood Roosevelt spaces, our aim was not to mimic a bygone era but to enhance the narrative of the spaces as if they had matured naturally over a century. The eclectic mix of global furnishings and materials, paired with the discovery and preservation of a historical mural, underscored our philosophy of design as an enhancement rather than an overhaul.

4. West Hollywood Home

The design for this West Hollywood home centered around creating a vibrant entertainment space. The result was a dynamic “cuddle pit” that blurs the lines between furniture and architectural elements, adorned with an eclectic mix of patterns, textures, and art, fostering a fun and memorable environment.

5. Chit Chat Coffee & Matcha

For Chit Chat Coffee & Matcha, the design aimed to elevate the typical coffee shop experience by incorporating mid-century details and materials without falling into nostalgia. The space balances elegance with comfort, enhancing the social and practical aspects of a neighborhood café.