OUR PRACTICE
KATO is a group of Architects, designers, and researchers working on projects internationally. We are fascinated by the role of architecture in elevating the human spirit and enhancing all aspects of our daily lives. We create places which foster a deep connection between the building and landscape. Our work includes a wide range of scales and contexts, from large commercial projects to projects supporting underserved communities.
Founded by Kyle Murphy, KATO is a full-service practice of Architecture capable of leading projects from conception through construction. Our studio has led the design of Founders Hall and Burr and Burton Academy, the Juarez Health Clinic in Mexico, and the La Estrella School in Nicaragua, all recently built, and is currently leading the design for the Skyover Hotel and Spa in Manchester, VT, the new Taconic & Green Regional Middle School, as well as several sporting, residential and mixed-use development projects.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Engaging the community is paramount to our design process. We organize design workshops, community forums and other outlets to gather feedback, evaluate various design approaches, and present iterative design.
FABRICATION
We have close relationships with many experienced fabrication companies, to enable project visions to be coordinated from conception through completion. Our workflows of detailed digital modeling and coordination of shop drawings creates smooth project delivery.
PROJECT FILMS AND VISUALIZATIONS
We are passionate about storytelling and engaging a wide audience in the greater message of a project. We work with film, digital animations and a range of supporting media to craft impactful stories and capture the soul of a design.
ITERATIVE DESIGN
Our team has the ability to rapidly test design approaches, provide digital model development, evaluate structural and MEP engineering approaches, to ensure the selected design best meets client needs.
TIMBER CONSTRUCTION
We are a leader in working with timber and partner with many of the leading timber suppliers, fabricators, and structural engineers. We engage these partners early in the design process to evaluate concepts, control cost and provide technical guidance.
ORGANIC DESIGN
We create projects that are in harmony with the landscape, where buildings emerge from natural lines and contours of the site, capture critical views, and create exciting and unexpected experiences.