Kevan was born and raised in Edinburgh, Scotland. He graduated from Loughborough University of Technology with a BSc in Economic and Technological History and Social Psychology in 1975. Kevan began his career as a lighting designer for rock bands including Jethro Tull, Ultravox, XTC and Steve Hackett.

In 1989 Kevan returned to his native town of Edinburgh to practice as a lighting designer in the architectural and exhibition fields, establishing KSLD. The practice grew over 35 years, completing over 800 projects during his time as leader before retiring in 2024. In 2018 the practice was bought by EFLA Engineering in Iceland, as part of a planned succession, and continues to provide excellence, innovation, and originality in lighting design. 

Kevan is passionate about driving the lighting design profession forward, always seeking to keep at the forefront of developments in lighting. He is considered an industry thought leader, he continues to engage with the development of the profession through the IALD currently as an elected director and chairman of the European Regulatory Affairs Committee.

In November 2018, Kevan was formally inaugurated into the IALD College of Fellows. The IALD Fellow designation is awarded to members of the IALD for valuable contributions to the art and science of lighting design, and for their continued service to the IALD. He was Lighting Designer of the year in the 2013 Lux Awards and was given the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award in the LIT Awards 2018.

He continues to provide specialist consultancy services to EFLA | Kevan Shaw Lighting Design, however, we want him to have full hands with his workshop and enjoy his passion for Steam engines - without having to wake up early or think of deadlines. Life is a daring adventure or nothing at all, and Kevan is an adventurer.