Born and raised in Palos Verdes, California native Grant Kirkpatrick now calls Manhattan Beach home where he heads up KAA Design, the firm he started 25 years ago. After graduating from USC with a Bachelor of Architecture degree, Kirkpatrick became a licensed architect at the age of 24, before going on to found his award-winning firm in 1988. While they’ve completed projects for Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Hugo Boss stores, Christie’s auction house, the Santa Monica Beach Club, and more, they now focus on contemporary residential design exclusively. In his spare time, Kirkpatrick teaches and lectures on Southern California residential architecture, along with devoting time to various community organizations. When it’s time to get away, he heads with his family to his vineyard in Central California. This Friday Five takes a look at some of the things this busy architect loves. Lake Nacimiento on Split Rock Ranch by Grant Kirkpatrick
1. Lakes

My wife and I were both fortunate to spend our childhood summers on a lake. I think it left a legacy of peace and serenity that I find in lakes everywhere.
Photo by Manolo Langis
2. Concrete

The search for integrity in the design and building process is paramount. Construction methods and materials are constantly analyzed for their honesty in both respects and, as such, the process of formed concrete as an exposed building material finds its way into much of what we do. Respected for its strength and performanc...