Designing for the Future: Kobi Karp on Innovation and Sustainability

Kobi Karp is the Founder and Principal of Kobi Karp Architecture and Interior Design Inc. (KKAID). A registered architect since 1988, Karp holds licenses in 15 different U.S. states and founded his firm in 1996, where he continues to serve as Principal-in-Charge of Design.

KKAID is a full-service architectural and interior design firm providing a comprehensive range of services, from designing large-scale high-rise condominiums and hospitality projects to intimate residential and commercial structures. With a focus on blending functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics, the firm has become a trusted name in innovative architectural solutions worldwide.

“Cast your eyes to feel the presence of the past and the spirit of the present… the future is preserved.”

Interview with Kobi Karp

What core differentiators make your project stand out in today’s real estate landscape?

Our main differentiator is that every project is rooted in my background in environmental design. We approach each development with the belief that spaces should not only look beautiful but also nurture the people who live, work, and gather there.

This means we focus on sustainability, natural light, ventilation, and the psychological impact of space, creating environments that reduce stress and promote well-being. Our designs aim to connect the built environment with nature and the community, offering a sense of harmony that goes beyond aesthetics.

This commitment results in projects that are resilient, timeless, and responsive to human experience, which is what truly sets us apart.

How are you adapting your strategy to shifts in the U.S. real estate market, and which trends do you believe will define its next phase?

I believe the trends remain consistent because people continue to seek a better quality of life.

With today’s technology, we can deliver a superior product, from the quality of the finishes to the air we breathe and even the sound environment we experience inside and outside the building.

The built environments we create today benefit from innovations that make them safer, healthier, and more resilient. This allows us to design spaces that not only meet current needs but also anticipate the evolving demands of future generations.

In what specific ways is sustainability embedded in your developments, from design and materials to operations and community impacts?

Sustainability is at the core of everything we design.

It begins with reducing energy consumption through solar power and other renewable sources, which not only lessens environmental impact but also reduces operational costs for owners and residents.

We integrate high-efficiency air conditioning and mechanical systems to improve indoor comfort and air quality. Our construction materials are carefully selected to be natural, resilient, and less chemically processed, creating healthier spaces for the people who inhabit them.

Sustainability is not only about energy and cost efficiency but also about improving quality of life. A well-designed, sustainable building is healthier, lasts longer, and performs better. When a building feels good to live or work in, it enhances well-being and supports its community for generations.

Can you share a notable success story involving international investors, how you engaged them, what value they brought, and what outcomes were achieved?

We have had the privilege of working with luxury investors on Fisher Island, including the Six Fisher Residences, as well as past projects such as Palazzo Del Sol and Palazzo Della Luna.

These relationships span decades and reflect the trust international investors place in our work.

More recently, we have seen strong international interest in projects such as Edge House, which is not being sold as a hospitality lodging venue. This model allows buyers to enjoy a sustainable and financially efficient product, where luxury amenities help offset the costs of taxes, insurance, and property maintenance — while still generating a return on investment.

International investors also provide stability for long-term engagement, strengthening the resilience of our developments. Whether in multifamily rentals, hospitality, or mixed-use projects, foreign investment has been a cornerstone of our business and a key driver in bringing visionary projects to life.

What is your overarching value proposition to prospective clients and investors, and why should they choose your properties over others in this competitive market?

Our clients choose us because of the exceptional quality and lasting value that our projects deliver.

Every development is guided by a clear and consistent vision that prioritizes design excellence, functionality, and long-term resilience. This ensures that our properties are not just visually striking but are also intelligently planned to offer enduring value.

The relationships we build with clients are founded on trust and proven results, which is why many continue to collaborate with us on future projects.

The value we create is unmatched, and it is this dedication to quality and innovation that sets our work apart in an increasingly competitive global market.