Tools of the Trade: The Objects That Define Architect Tom Kundig's World

15 hours ago7 min read1 comments

The artifacts a person collects reveal a narrative more intimate than any biography. For Tom Kundig, the celebrated founder and principal of Olson Kundig, a selection of his cherished possessions provides a window into the philosophy that shapes his iconic, kinetic architecture.These objects—from a functional cowboy hat to a dependable Jeep Wrangler—are not mere belongings but essential instruments of a life dedicated to a hands-on dialogue with the natural world. Kundig’s architectural work is renowned for its powerful, mechanical interplay with the environment, and this same principle of rugged, purposeful engagement is reflected in his personal choices.The cowboy hat serves as a shield against the sun and rain, emblematic of a design practice that values physical presence over digital remoteness. The Jeep is the indispensable transport for reaching the remote, challenging sites where his structures come to life, underscoring a commitment to firsthand exploration.Perhaps most revealing is his allegiance to the simple graphite pencil. In an era dominated by digital design, this tool affirms Kundig's belief in the primacy of the human hand—the initial, imperfect sketch where monumental ideas first take form.It represents an immediacy and intimacy that software cannot replicate, highlighting an ongoing conversation about the soul of craft in a technologically advanced age. This theme is further echoed in his appreciation for a seal sculpture, an inspiration drawn from the organic, weathered forms of nature itself.Together, these objects weave a story of authenticity and a deeply ingrained spirit of self-reliance. For Kundig, there is no distinction between life and work; his art is an extension of the tools he uses to navigate the world. His story is told not through a grand statement, but through the worn leather of a hat and the reliable engine of a Jeep—a testament to the powerful narratives embedded in the objects we hold dear.

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