During the recent AIA Conference in Las Vegas, ArchDaily had the opportunity to interview Tom Kundig, Principal at Olson Kundig who has been designing and building for the firm for the last 30 years.
Having been raised in a mountain context, Tom relates strongly with the landscape and its natural elements, acknowledging the weathering of materials as something valuable and poetic. In this conversation, Tom explains the importance of context in each project, particularly the contrast and dispersion of buildings as a meaningful response to the landscape. He also addresses the importance of technology and communication as part of a new design process that we must all start to integrate, as well as open source initiatives.
Keep reading to see the video and complete interview.
00:20: How did you get involved in architecture?
01:30: How did the studio start?
04:13: How is context an important element in your projects?
05:48: What can you tell us about your approach to materials?
07:35: How has the way you do architecture changed in recent years because of technology?
11:50: How do you think the role of the architect has changed and what are the skills we have to focus on for this new future?
13:00: What do you think about the Open Source state of architecture?
14:40: Is digital fabrication playing a role in your studio?
17:23: What do you think about these advancements in the materials and products industry in relation to the aesthetics of your work?
19:20: Have you felt more freedom about using materials outside of the US?
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