Inspired to design and develop his own work, Kevin established his practice with the credo:

Architecture is the art of listening and the craft of solving problems elegantly.

By designing and self-developing projects, Kevin is free to explore holistic solutions that integrate sustainable strategies and emerging building technologies typically perceived as too experimental by clients. This broader perspective profoundly influences how all of KdA’s projects are conceived, designed and executed. The practice relies on deep collaborations with highly creative and empathetic practitioners to elevate the work above its individual parts.

These innovative projects have been widely published and recognized. In 2010, Kevin was honored with the national Young Architect Award by the American Institute of Architects and as a Fellow in 2015.

Taking his work seriously, but not himself, Kevin doesn’t own a black turtleneck. Through his amiable, personal working style, Kevin has built his practice by word of mouth, finally ordering his first business cards 15 years after launching KdA. He serves onnonprofit boards and can’t refuse worthy pro bono projects for local church and youth-related organizations.

A native of San Diego, Kevin graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Arizona. Along the way, he studied architecture at UC Berkeley and at Syracuse University’s program in Florence, Italy, where he learned about urban design.

Kevin enjoys music, sharing a meal with just about anybody, laughing out loud and coaching any of the youth sports his four children happen to be playing.

Education

1992
University of Arizona | Bachelor of Architecture | Cum Laude

1992 Fall
University of California, Berkeley

1991 Spring
Syracuse University | Study Abroad | Florence, Italy

1986
University of San Diego

Experience

1998–Current
Kevin deFreitas Architects, AIA

1996–1998
Studio E Architects

1994–1996
Bowlus, Edinger, & Starck Architects

1992–1994
Richar Yen & Associates

1988–1990
Rob Wellington Quigley Architects, FAIA | Summer Intern

Associations

2011
New School of Architecture + Design | Adjunct Faculty

2011–2014
City of San Diego Public Arts Commission 

2011–2012
American Institute of Architects Board of Directors | San Diego Chapter

2009–Current
San Diego Architectural Foundation | Board of Directors

2005
LEAD San Diego | Graduate Class of 2005

2003–2005
Centre City Community Plan Update | Subcommittee Chair

2001–2003
East Village Association | Past President | Board of Directors

1996–2004
Centre City Advisory Committee (CCAC) | Four elected terms

Registration

Licensed Architect California | C-29341

AIA American Institute of Architects | Registered Member