A visionary Seattle architect’s influence lives on

Paul Hayden Kirk was a mid-century innovator. # k5abend

SEATTLE – Where many people see a library, Dale Kutzera sees a northwest symbol.

“Borrowings from the past, borrowing from Seattle wood traditions, but in a very modern way,” said Kutzera.

The author says the Seattle branch of Magnolia is a prime example of the style he calls “Northwest Modern” pioneered by visionary architect Paul Hayden Kirk in the middle of the last century.

“His work was all about light, space and openness,” said Kutzera.

Kirk’s distinctive features were simple design, exposed structure, and views that bring nature out into the open.

Kutzera said: “It is not seen from the outside. It is experienced from the inside.”

Kutzera’s new book celebrates the development of local design that has always drawn from our natural environment.

“The hills, the trees, that sort of thing,” said Kutzera.

Kirk amplified these influences with creations like the Unitarian Church in Seattle.

“It looks like a church,” said Kutzera, “but it really doesn’t look like a church.”

He also designed the famous University of Washington faculty club.

“Instead of wood, it is made of steel and glass,” says Kutzera.

The architect created a whole new style of public buildings and residences that is unique in the region but deserves worldwide attention.

Kutzera said: “Very Zen-like, quiet places where you can withdraw and be safe, and still be connected to nature and still be able to look at the beautiful surroundings around you.”

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