Cities are often built as uncomfortable concrete jungles completely disconnected from nature, and most of them rapidly deplete in just a few years. Our urban areas do not have to be designed this way, and they can be completely transformed through regenerative architecture. Corinna Bellizzi sits down with Kevin Kennon, CEO of Beyond Zero, who shares how his zero-carbon luxury eco-resorts help heal humanity’s relationship with nature while providing sustainable living systems for everyone. He explains how reconciling high-end development with ecological stewardship can give birth to sustainable cities with a circular economy and cultural continuity. Kevin also explores the role of architects in shaping forth a new era of sustainable design and the right way to use AI tools in making this dream a reality.

About Guest:
Kevin Kennon is an internationally acclaimed architect with over 40 years of experience driving innovation in sustainable and human-centered design. As founder and CEO of Beyond Zero DDC Inc., he pioneers zero-carbon luxury eco-resorts that blend architectural excellence with environmental responsibility. His journey includes leading landmark projects such as Barclays North American Headquarters, the Rodin Museum in Seoul, and multiple award-winning Bloomingdale’s stores. A finalist in the World Trade Center design competition, Kevin has consistently pushed boundaries in adaptive reuse, urban planning, and large-scale development. With over 40 international design awards and works featured in MoMA’s permanent collection, he continues to shape the future of architecture through thought leadership, expert consultation, and lectures at Yale and Columbia.

Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinkennonarchitect/
Guest Website:
https://www.kdcaia.com/
https://bz-ddc.com
Guest Social: https://www.instagram.com/pkk2418

Show Notes:
[00:00] Teaser
[2:10] Working At The Intersection Of Innovation, Sustainability, And Human Experience
[5:17] How Beyond Zero Is Going Beyond Net Zero
[11:44] How AI Can Help Elevate Regenerative Architecture
[24:10] Reconciling High-End Development With Ecological Stewardship
[28:51] Metrics To Monitor To Ensure Regenerative Architecture Works
[31:31] Insights About Adaptive Reuse And Cultural Continuity
[48:00] How Architects Can Leverage Climate Paradox In Urban Designing
[52:35] How Climate Change Is Affecting Architectural Design
[57:34] How Architects Can Succeed In The New Era Of Sustainable Design
[1:04:20] How Kevin Designed Ground Zero’s Temporary Viewing Platform
[1:11:26] Episode Wrap-up And Closing Words

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