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Pace Common Ground: A Conversation with Kenne Shepherd

Pace Common Ground Kenne Shepherd

Kenne Shepherd

We’re proud to salute another pioneering woman in real estate, as part of our ongoing Pace Common Ground campaign for Gender Equality. Kenne Shepherd is a leading architect and interior designer known for creating elegant, sophisticated environments for international and US-based commercial and private clients. Founder and Director of Kenne Shepherd Interior Design Architecture PLLC, Kenne has established a full-service firm that responds to the unique character and needs of her clients, designing spaces that express their essence through a seamless integration of architecture and interior design.

Like all of our Pace Common Ground trailblazers, Kenne has paved a successful path for so many other women to follow. We encourage you to take a few moments to view her videos and to hear her inspiring comments and encouraging words!

Pace Common Ground Salutes Kenne Shepherd, Founder/Director, Kenne Shepherd Interior Design Architecture

Kenne Shepherd is an architect and a LEED-accredited professional. She is an active member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) New York Chapter, the U.S. Green Building Council, and Commercial Real Estate Women of New York (CREW New York) , where she recently served as Co-Chair of the 40th Anniversary Gala Committee. Since opening her firm in 1993, Ms. Shepherd has built a reputation as a highly skilled architect known for creating compelling spaces notable for their classic contemporary look, refined detailing and use of quality materials. Her body of work has attracted such worldwide brands as Calvin Klein, Lancôme, Wolford, Salvatore Ferragamo, and prestigious private clients. Institutional clients include Columbia University Medical Center. Her articles on innovative design trends have appeared in Real Estate Weekly, New York Real Estate Journal and her monthly column in Mann Report Residential.

It was a delight to chat with Kenne for our Common Ground campaign; to hear about her career, role models, and advice and encouragement for other women. Click on any or all of the videos below to view.

How did you get your start in the industry?

Did you have any mentors in the field?

What are some obstacles or challenges you faced along the way on your career path?

In what ways do you think gender inequality impacts women in your field – and have you seen changes since you started in the field?

How do you think we can maintain the momentum of the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements and conversations, especially within your industry?

What are some milestones or achievements you can share from your career?

Is there something you would still like to accomplish in your career?

What advice would you give to women who may be starting out, trying to break in, or trying to advance in the field?

Last question, on a more lighthearted note: what’s the last great book you read or show you binged?

Thanks to Kenne for sharing her experience, her unique perspective and insights, and her encouraging words and advice. We are proud to feature her as part of our Pace Common Ground Trailblazers series. Here’s to every achievement earned, every milestone passed, and every glass ceiling shattered!