As a Partner, Duan Tran plays a central role in shaping both the creative direction and strategic evolution of the firm. His leadership extends beyond design into firmwide initiatives focused on organizational growth, business development, and long-term visioning. Through this dual lens, Duan helps position KAA to build upon its nearly 40 year legacy while continuing to advance its presence at the forefront of a highly specialized, design-driven residential practice.

 

Alongside his leadership responsibilities, Duan remains deeply engaged in the design of the firm’s most significant projects. He collaborates closely with a discerning and globally minded clientele, guiding each project through a thoughtful and immersive design process. His work is grounded in a modern architectural sensibility—balancing composition, materiality, and spatial clarity—while emphasizing a strong connection to landscape and the lived experience of home. This approach results in residences that are both refined and deeply personal.

 

Duan’s work has been widely recognized, receiving honors from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and being featured in leading publications including Architectural Digest, Interiors, Luxe, and Robb Report. His projects reflect a commitment to design excellence, craftsmanship, and the integration of architecture with its natural context.

 

Originally from Ohio, Duan earned his undergraduate degree from Miami University (OH), followed by graduate degrees in Architecture and Historic Preservation from the University of Southern California. Prior to joining KAA Design, he gained experience with several distinguished residential and hospitality firms in both Ohio and Washington, D.C., further shaping his perspective on design across varied contexts.

 

Duan is a licensed architect and active member of the AIA. He also serves on the Executive Cabinet of the Leaders of Design Council, contributing to a global network of design leaders. His broader industry involvement includes past service on the Board of Directors for the Architecture and Design (A+D) Museum in Los Angeles and the Advisory Board for Miami University’s College of Creative Arts. He regularly participates in academic and professional juries and is a frequent speaker and panelist at design and industry events.

 

Outside of his professional work, Duan values time with his family. He and his wife enjoy traveling and exploring new cultures, experiences that continually inform his design perspective, while staying actively engaged in the lives of their three daughters at home in Culver City.