The Tools and Talismans of Tom Kundig: An Architect's Ethos, From Pencil to Cowboy Hat

3 hours ago7 min read

For architect Tom Kundig, the objects that populate his life are far more than possessions; they are the fundamental instruments and inspirations behind his celebrated work. The principal of Olson Kundig surrounds himself with artifacts that embody a unique synthesis of raw, hands-on utility and profound artistic expression.His well-worn cowboy hat, for example, is a statement of principle. It represents a tangible connection to the physical world and a rugged, individualistic spirit that directly informs his architectural philosophy—a stark contrast to the digital abstraction of contemporary design.This is not an accessory but a tool for remembering that buildings are felt and weathered, not just rendered. This same ethos is echoed in his choice of a Jeep Wrangler, a vehicle valued for capability and access to the untamed landscapes that serve as his muse.Kundig’s reverence for the humble pencil is equally significant. In an era dominated by complex software, the pencil symbolizes the most intimate and immediate link between an idea and its creation.This directness is mirrored in his buildings, where the raw textures and visible marks of construction are celebrated, not hidden. Juxtaposed with these functional tools is a seal sculpture, an object of pure artistry that anchors him to the emotional and natural world.This duality—the seamless balance between the mechanical and the poetic—is the core of his genius. To hear Kundig discuss these items is to understand his entire architectural approach: a human-centric focus on kinetic elements, industrial materials, and the belief that a building should actively engage with its inhabitants and environment. In a world chasing sterile automation, his work and the objects he cherishes propose a compelling alternative, finding profound beauty in the grit and soul of the handmade.

#Tom Kundig

#architect

#Olson Kundig

#favorite things

#design

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