Nest architecture inc was founded in 1995 by Kip Kelly, AIA. Kelly studied environmental design at the University of California at Berkeley and received his degree in architecture in 1981. Kelly was profoundly influenced by Berkeley professor, Joseph Esherick, and by the eclectic work of local Bay Area architect, Bernard Maybeck. The College of Environmental Design at Berkeley emphasized the responsibility of architecture to the user; function as a bridge to beauty. The optimum functional solution becomes the framework for the aesthetics of the building.

Kelly approaches each project with an eye toward integrating modern technology and space planning with contextual architectural styles.  His successfully completed projects include the Notre Dame High School Center for Arts and Technology, the award winning Marty’s Music Store, St. Paul Medical Center, the corporate headquarters of Kelly Slater's clothing company Outerknown, Honk for Help headquarters, corporate headquarters for HQ Development, and custom residences on both East and West coasts. Kelly is a full professional member of the American Institute of Architects, and a member of The National Historic Preservation Trust.

Nest architecture inc was chosen in 2012 to represent California in the book, 50 US Architects. Several of Kelly's works were showcased, including his original design of the Napoli Residence which was photographed by Julius Shulman. Kelly is now in the process of working with a new client to remodel the house, 12 years after the original was completed.

Prior to starting his own firm, Kelly worked in the offices of Gensler, Charles Kober Associates, and Boss Agnew Architects.  He studied engineering at the University of California, Irvine before transferring to and graduating from the University of California, Berkeley with a Bachelors Degree in Architecture.

Along with being published in 50 US Architects, his work has appeared in the Los Angeles Times, The Robb Report, AIArchitect, People Magazine and California Real Estate Journal.  Kelly's projects have also been featured on HGTV and the hit Netflix show Selling Sunset.