Born in Minneapolis and raised in Los Angeles, Ray Kappe studied architecture at the University of California, Berkeley. After working for various firms, he established his own practice in 1954, where he developed a reputation for designing residences that integrated seamlessly with the rugged topography of the California landscape.

Kappe is perhaps best known for his signature use of post-and-beam construction, which allowed for open floor plans and extensive glass walls that blurred the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. His work often emphasized modularity and the use of natural materials, reflecting a commitment to both aesthetic clarity and structural efficiency.

In 1972, Kappe co-founded the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc) to foster a more experimental approach to architectural education. Later in his career, he shifted his focus toward sustainable development, collaborating with LivingHomes to create high-quality, prefabricated modular housing units that prioritized environmental performance.