The Tools and Talismans: A Glimpse into Tom Kundig's Design World

1 day ago7 min read2 comments

To ask an architect about their cherished possessions is to understand the foundation of their craft. For Tom Kundig, founder and principal of Olson Kundig, his chosen objects are not just personal effects but the fundamental tools and inspirations behind his celebrated, ruggedly material work.Each item reveals a core tenet of his design philosophy. His cowboy hat is a prime example—less a fashion statement and more essential gear for on-the-ground exploration, embodying a hands-on ethos that connects him directly to the landscapes where his buildings take root.Similarly, his Jeep Wrangler is a vehicle of pure function, enabling journeys into the raw terrains that fuel his architectural imagination. This tactile engagement is paramount, which is why the humble pencil remains a non-negotiable instrument in his studio.It represents the primal, unmediated connection between idea and sketch, a crucial first gesture in an era dominated by digital design. Perhaps most revealing is his seal sculpture, an object that seems to stand apart yet is deeply integral.It serves as a study of pure, organic form—a reminder of the flawless elegance inherent in nature, which Kundig echoes through his use of weathering steel and textured concrete. Together, these artifacts form a curated autobiography.The hat and Jeep represent the journey and process; the pencil is the conduit of creation; and the seal is the timeless muse. They collectively narrate the story of a creator deeply rooted in the physical world, whose legacy is shaped by the tools he uses and the natural beauty he strives to reflect.

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