Five Inspirations from Kevin Klein's Design World
From architectural restoration to hotel design, Kevin Klein's sources of inspiration.
1Kevin Klein's Design Approach
After over a decade in the hospitality industry, Kevin Klein founded his design firm in 2020. With an architecture degree from the University of Southern California, Klein takes a holistic approach to design. Emphasizing construction, operations, and long-term functionality, he gives each project a distinct identity. His favorite moment is when a project is completed and he sees the before-and-after photos, witnessing the tangible impact of his work.
2Gladding, McBean Ceramics Company
Klein worked with Gladding, McBean during the restoration of the NoMad Hotel in Los Angeles, where historic terra-cotta elements were crucial. Gladding, McBean is one of only two companies in the U.S. capable of producing architectural terra cotta at this level. At their 150-year-old facility, they combine scanning technology with traditional craftsmanship to recreate historic pieces. This experience changed Klein's perspective on restoration as keeping a material language alive.
3Park Hotel Vitznau
Park Hotel Vitznau in Switzerland perfectly integrates with its surroundings. Opened in 1903 on Lake Lucerne's edge, the hotel balances old-world Swiss architecture with the clarity of the landscape. It blends contemporary technology with honest nostalgia, proving history and modern luxury can coexist. The most powerful design element isn't man-made—it's Lake Lucerne itself, making the hotel unforgettable.
4Lake Maracaibo in Venezuela
Klein's 2012 trip to Lake Maracaibo left a lasting impression. The enormous water body, dense rainforest, humidity, and nearly constant lightning create a visceral, almost cinematic experience. The region's famous lightning against the dark tropical landscape felt surreal. For Klein, this trip became a permanent addition to his subconscious library of places, colors, and textures that influence his design work.
5Ferrari 575M Maranello
The Ferrari 575M Maranello represents Klein's appreciation for the intersection of tradition and modernity. Its V12 engine delivers the sound and theater of classic Italian grand tourers. The long hood and physical controls offer vintage appeal without being outdated. Klein admires how its beauty seems to follow function—nothing is gratuitous, yet the result is highly stylized, striking a perfect balance between romance and performance.
6Korean Dancheong
Klein is fascinated by Dancheong, Korea's traditional decorative painting system. At first glance, the vibrant colors and intricate patterns appear exuberant. But upon closer inspection, the underlying structure becomes clear—rules, repetition, and hierarchy govern the ornamentation. Klein is drawn to designs that hold opposing ideas, and Dancheong achieves this beautifully: disciplined yet playful, decorative yet intentional, colorful yet architecturally clear.
7SYRN Brand Studio
Klein enjoyed designing a space for SYRN, Sydney Sweeney's lingerie brand. The challenge was creating a workplace, creative lab, and brand expression simultaneously. Rather than defaulting to conventional solutions, Klein developed a unique design reflecting the brand's emerging identity. This project showcases his ability to merge diverse functions into a cohesive space that tells a brand's story.
8The Lasting Impact of Design
For Kevin Klein, design is about preserving extraordinary material languages rather than recreating the past. This philosophy shines through in his work, from restoration projects to luxury hotels. Klein's approach demonstrates that design isn't just about style—it's deeply connected to structure, function, and emotion. His holistic perspective gives his projects lasting impact and meaning, proving great design stands the test of time.