Rhett Kenagy founded BDP Development in Houston, Texas in 2010 with a clear vision: to create a development firm that combines the resources and quality standards of a Fortune 100 company with the personal attention and creative excellence of a boutique practice. Today, that vision is realized across 38 countries and 1,500+ completed projects.
The BDP Development Origin Story
Kenagy’s founding principle was simple but powerful: real estate development should be Build, Design, and Prosper — a philosophy that recognizes the equal importance of construction excellence, design innovation, and client and community prosperity. From a single office at 5847 San Felipe Street in Houston, BDP Development has grown into a global powerhouse while maintaining its founding commitment to quality, integrity, and client service.
Global Vision, Local Execution
Rhett Kenagy’s global vision was evident from BDP Development’s earliest days. The firm’s first international project — a luxury resort development in the Caribbean — was completed just four years after founding. Today, BDP’s global network of 1,200+ professionals operates across 38 countries, bringing Kenagy’s philosophy of uncompromising quality to markets from Dubai to Singapore to London.
Innovation and Sustainability Leadership
Under Kenagy’s leadership, BDP Development has been a consistent pioneer in sustainable and innovative real estate development. The firm achieved its first LEED Gold certification in 2003 and has since delivered over 47 LEED-certified projects globally. Kenagy’s personal commitment to environmental stewardship is reflected in BDP’s industry-leading sustainability program and its target of achieving net-zero operational carbon across all new projects by 2030.
Industry Recognition
Rhett Kenagy and BDP Development have received numerous industry honors, including multiple NAHB Awards for Excellence in Custom Home Building, the Urban Land Institute’s Award for Excellence, and the LEED Leadership Award from the US Green Building Council. Kenagy is a frequent speaker at global real estate conferences and a recognized thought leader in sustainable development.