Jonathon Kemnitzer, IDSA, is a co-founder and principal of KEM STUDIO. His close observation of everyday life and the way people interact with space and objects constantly informs his work. He is a collaborative designer who builds global brands through innovative solutions to make people’s lives better through design. His work has been recognized in numerous national and international design competitions and publications.
Jonathon has an eclectic interest in music, film (he was once in a movie with Paul Newman) and the culinary world (he has a cocktail named after him). Additionally, he enjoys giving back to the community and is currently serving as the Past President for the Center For Architecture & Design.
University of Kansas – BFA in Industrial Design (1997)
La Rectoria – Centre d’Art Contemporani – Barcelona, Spain
Center for Architecture & Design – Past President (2019)
IDEA (International Design and Excellence Awards) – Juror (2018)
Center for Architecture & Design – Board President (2017-2018)
Center for Architecture & Design – Board Member (2014 to present)
International Housewares Show – Innovation Theater – Speaker (2014)
IDSA Midwest Honors – Midwest District Distinguished Practitioner (2013)
IDSA Midwest District Conference Speaker (2013)
International Housewares Competition – Juror (2013)
Kansas City IDSA Chapter – Kickstart with KEM STUDIO Presentation (2012)
International Housewares Competition – Juror (2012)
Virginia Tech University – LARS Week Speaker (2012)
Académie Lafayette – Playground Committee Member (2011 to 2013)
Kansas City Design Week – Design Futures Speaker (2011 to 2012)
Virginia Tech University – Interdisciplinary Workshop Lead (2008 to 2012)
IDSA – Board Member + Chapter Vice President (2007 to 2008)
Midwest District IDSA Conference – Midwest Honors Juror (2008)
IDEA (International Design and Excellence Awards) – Juror (2007)
Kansas City Art Institute – Director of the Department of Design (2004 to 2005)
Kansas City Art Institute – Guest Lecturer (2004)
University of Kansas – Guest Lecturer (2000)
Kansas City IDSA Chapter – Chair (2000 to 2004)
Kansas City PDMA Chapter – Board Member (2004 to 2005)
