firm feature: olson kundig architects

Olson Kundig Architects is led by head designer Tom Kundig. Kundig is an internationally recognized and award winning architect known for his "inventive and oftentimes playful approach to kinetic architecture" (Olson Kundig). His work can be further characterized by its sensitivity to the natural setting, experimentation with materials and modernist designs. 

Kundig is one of my favorite architects practicing today. His ability to contrast the modern with the natural result in homes that are both inviting and innovative. Here are a few of my favorites. Enjoy!

The Pierre by Olson Kundig Architects

Delta Shelter by Olson Kundig Architects

Outpost by Olson Kundig Architects

Hawaii Residence by Olson Kundig Architects

Firm Feature: Johnsen Schmaling Architects

Johnsen Schmaling Architects is a small firm based out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Its two principles, Brian Johnsen and Sebastian Schmaling, founded the firm in 2003 and have since received numerous awards for their high end residential and commercial projects. Their work can be characterized as being sensitive to site and context while still being bold and thoroughly modern. 

One of the things that I enjoy most about their projects is their approach to space planning - a traditional cabin layout flipped vertically for example. Also the way they site their projects according to what is best suited for the house rather than just abiding by neighborhood norms. Be sure to check out their website for more examples of their work but below find three of my favorites. 

Stacked Cabin by Johnsen Schmaling

OS House by Johnsen Schmaling

Nexus House by Johnsen Schmaling

Firm Feature: Jarmund Vigsnaes Architects

​A couple of years, as part of a class on Scandinavian architecture, I had the opportunity to go to Oslo, Norway. It was November so it never got much warmer than 25 degrees fahrenheit and it was dark at 4pm in the afternoon yet it was one of the most significant trips I have ever taken. Scandinavia, as a region, has an amazingly rich tradition of valuing design and to experience that culture first hand was truly transformative for me as a designer.  

One of the best things about the trip was getting to visit with the principles of Jarmund Vigsnaes Architects. They are a small firm of roughly 20 people and while they primarily do residential work they have also branched into doing larger and larger public projects. For me, their work is characterized by its innovative use of traditional materials, attention to craft and detail and its consideration of the natural environment. While it was hard for me to select out just a few projects, I have featured three of their residential projects below. 

​images by JVA

​images by JVA

​images by JVA