Pete Kennon

His work bridges creativity with strategic thinking. As the founder of Studio Kennon, Pete fosters a dynamic creative ecosystem that spans a diverse range of projects—from private residences and luxury hotels to commercial and retail spaces. His design philosophy is grounded in a lifelong connection to the built environment, influenced by his childhood in rural Victoria, where his family home instilled in him a strong appreciation for light, materials, and the emotional impact they create within a space.

Driven by an unrelenting thirst for knowledge, Pete’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Business, followed by a Bachelor and Masters in Architecture. His thesis, The Senses of Place, became the foundation of his design ethos, exploring how architecture and interior design shape the human experience. This exploration remains the driving force behind his work, with each project rooted in the desire to craft spaces that evoke a strong sense of identity and emotional resonance. His design process often starts with a “gut feel,” which evolves into a thoughtful, context-driven response to the specific needs of the space and its inhabitants.

A skilled communicator and strategic thinker, Pete has successfully led large-scale developments, creating planning outcomes that demonstrate the power of good design in securing approvals across various regulatory bodies, including local councils, state governments, and VCAT. As an expert witness in architecture and urban design, Pete is known for his clear, reasoned approach and his ability to articulate the intrinsic value of well-considered design.

With Studio Kennon, Pete embraces a fluid creative process, drawing inspiration from art, music, and fashion to inform his work. This approach has led to the studio’s growing recognition, with notable accolades such as being shortlisted for the 2022 Asia Pacific INDE Awards (Protege division) and named runners-up in the 2021 Australian Interior Design Awards: Emerging Designer category. Studio Kennon, which began in 2019 as a one-man operation at Pete’s kitchen bench, now has a thriving team of over 20, with plans for international expansion.

Pete’s expertise spans a variety of sectors, including commercial, multi-residential, hospitality, and retail, with projects extending across Australia, the USA, and Asia. His ability to navigate both the micro-details and the broader scope of large-scale master planning results in designs that are not only commercially viable but also deeply personal, creative, and impactful.