John Chapman

As a founding principal of KCCT, John has defined the firm’s identity and reputation as a national leader in the design of secure and culturally significant architecture. Under his guidance, KCCT has grown into a trusted partner to federal agencies, contractors, and design partners, known for technical acumen, contextual sensitivity, and commitment to client service. His impact extends across firm-wide operations, from strategic planning and business development to quality control and interdisciplinary team integration.

John is a leading authority in the design of secure facilities for the diplomatic, defense, and intelligence communities. With more than five decades of experience, he has helped define the practice of secure civic architecture, advancing the integration of security, performance, and cultural expression across mission-critical projects worldwide. His work aligns technical precision and constructability with architectural vision, yielding environments that are secure, sustainable, and enduring symbols of national identity.

Over the course of his career, John has played a pivotal role in advancing the design of diplomatic and federal facilities in complex global contexts. His early work in award-winning transit architecture, including the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority’s architectural program, laid a foundation for his expertise in integrated systems design, performance standards, and large-scale public infrastructure. His portfolio includes the planning and design of campuses, compounds, and civic buildings in over 100 countries, as well as major restorations of architecturally and historically significant sites. His leadership has helped evolve best practices in blast-resistant design, perimeter security, and adaptive site planning, setting new standards for the integration of physical security and architectural quality across a wide range of project types and agencies.

Beyond project delivery, John’s contributions to the profession include service on the AIA Federal Architecture Task Group and the OBO Industry Advisory Panel, where he has championed performance-driven approaches to secure civic design. He has also presented to the National Academy of Sciences, and his case study on the design of rapid transit systems is published in The Encyclopedia of Architecture. His career reflects a commitment to the promotion of the role of architecture in international diplomacy, civic facilities, physical security, and public infrastructure to elevate and enhance the experiences of occupants and others who engage with these essential spaces.