I-Kanda Architects

About I-Kanda Architects

I-Kanda Architects is an award-winning architectural design practice founded by Isamu & Marley Kanda, following graduation from the Harvard University Graduate School of Design. The firm creates buildings and spaces that are modern, yet enduring – equal parts purpose and sculpture; broadly ranging from lofty barn conversions to Back Bay penthouses, boutique storefronts to mountain-side cabins. The firm approaches each project as a new array of needs and desires out of which to conceive uniquely enhanced environments. Their aim is to turn constraints into possibilities - to work with clients, builders and contexts to realize ideas far beyond anyone’s initial hopes.

Winner of the A' Design Award.
Specialized in Design.
Original Design.
Creative, Diligent and Innovative.

Interview with I-Kanda Architects

Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?

Design runs in our family. Of the 5 of us, one is a painter, one is an industrial designer, one is a structural engineer, and one is an architect. Let’s just say it’s in our DNA.

Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?

The firm creates buildings and spaces that are modern, yet enduring – equal parts purpose and sculpture; broadly ranging from lofty barn conversions to Back Bay penthouses, boutique storefronts to mountain-side cabins. The firm approaches each project as a new array of needs and desires out of which to conceive uniquely enhanced environments. Our aim is to turn constraints into possibilities - to work with clients, builders and contexts to realize ideas far beyond anyone’s initial hopes.

What kinds of works do you like designing most?

Anything, every work is an opportunity for innovation and creativity

What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?

Anything that creates something extraordinary out of something commonplace

Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?

All aspects matter, it is the holistic approach to design that is most powerful

Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?

Physical model-building, hand drawing, digital camera, tape measure, CAD, Sketch-up

How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?

Forever, we are constantly reinventing, even if the project is complete