Steven Kenat

Biography: Steve is an experienced architect with specialization in designing and driving projects that are difference-makers to the economic vibrancy, societal health, and authenticity of the urban condition in cities like Cincinnati. He is a member of ULI's Urban Revitalization Product Council and a former ULI Cincinnati district Council Chair. His projects include TOD mixed-use and market/affordable housing, cultural and civic organizations, and social profits. Stewardship of client resources includes helping develop realistic pro-formas and compelling capital campaigns, and using a variety of tax credits to help projects succeed. He works closely with clients and stakeholders to thoroughly understand their goals and opportunities, for the execution of the right design solution that best serves the interests of all impacted or involved. His passion is for projects that are transformational for urban neighborhoods, primarily in Cincinnati, and applying that expertise in urban revitalization for other cities. He is currently working with city and state officials to improve the design and impact of the planned I-75 highway corridor, advocating for reconnecting and redeveloping choice neighborhoods, where they suffered the 'urban renewal' of the 1960's when the highway was built and generations of disinvestment. His work extends beyond projects to inform policies and research with initiatives that create systemic change in our urban environment, and use great design to increase social equity and create vibrant neighborhoods without creating cultural gentrification. His clients include commercial developers, community development corporations, not-for-profits, cross-disciplinary designers and a variety of Public/Private Partnerships. Using that diversity, they seek out opportunities to bring innovation and sustainability into the design and construction process through off-site fabrication and new technologies to reduce cost and add long-term value to owners and end-users.