At Think Architecture, innovation and thoughtful design are fundamental to our approach. Our team is made up of passionate professionals dedicated to shaping the built environment with creativity, sustainability, and a deep respect for place. As part of our ongoing Architectural Thinkers series, we’re excited to introduce Sam Kingore, an Associate Architect whose work is driven by a passion for sustainability and thoughtful design.
A Lifelong Fascination with Architecture
For Sam, the spark for architecture was ignited early. At just five years old, he was captivated by the work of a friend’s father, an architect who designed his own home—creating an inspiring workspace with spectacular views and a deep connection to its natural surroundings. Seeing that home sparked Sam’s desire to become an architect.
Sustainability, Design, and Inspiration
Sam’s dedication to architecture extends beyond aesthetics—he emphasizes sustainability and creating buildings that promote well-being. Even before formally studying architecture, he was inspired by Popular Mechanics magazine, where he explored topics like passive solar design, water recycling, organic gardening, and autonomous living. His interest in sustainability continues to shape his approach, ensuring that each project is both environmentally responsible and beneficial to its occupants. Among the projects Sam has worked on, those focused on health, wellness, and a connection to nature have been particularly rewarding. His work on Velvaere, a wellness-focused residential community, aligns closely with his passion for sustainable and human-centered architecture.
Influenced by Organic Architecture, particularly its emphasis on integrating design with nature and fostering community, Sam believes architecture should enhance its surroundings while serving both the needs of the client and the greater community. His approach incorporates sustainable strategies and evolving best practices to create functional, enduring spaces.
Beyond architecture, Sam draws inspiration from a diverse range of artistic and cultural influences. He has a deep appreciation for music, which he sees as a way to connect with different cultures and perspectives. His artistic influences include Impressionism, the Arts and Crafts movement, Constructivism, and Cubism, all of which have contributed to his appreciation for composition and design.
With German heritage, Sam has traveled to cities such as Vienna, Frankfurt, Cologne, and Essen, where he has been influenced by their architectural history and urban planning. These experiences have broadened his perspective on how architecture interacts with its surroundings and impacts daily life.
Architecture in Utah and Looking Ahead
Through his work on projects in Utah, Sam finds inspiration in the region’s natural beauty and diverse environments. He believes architecture should reflect and complement its surroundings, and he often incorporates elements such as colors, textures, and patterns found in Utah’s mountains and deserts into his work. One of his favorite local buildings, the Natural History Museum of Utah, exemplifies this approach, integrating seamlessly with the landscape while offering an engaging experience inside.
Looking ahead, Sam sees architecture as an evolving field with the potential to create healthier, more sustainable spaces. He is particularly interested in emerging technologies and materials that support energy efficiency, sustainability, and occupant wellness. As these considerations become more mainstream, he looks forward to seeing them integrated into everyday design.
His advice to aspiring architects? Find what interests you most and pursue it with curiosity. Architecture is a broad field, and developing expertise in a particular area can be valuable. He encourages young architects to continually learn, explore their interests, and deepen their understanding of evolving design challenges.
A Lasting Impact
At Think Architecture, we value team members like Sam who bring expertise, creativity, and a thoughtful approach to every project. His commitment to sustainability and holistic design makes him a key contributor to our firm’s success. As he continues creating spaces that connect with nature and serve their communities, we look forward to seeing his impact on the built environment.