Christopher Tunnard Quotes
- Architect
- England
- 1910 - 1979
Christopher Tunnard was a British-born landscape architect, writer, and educator who made significant contributions to the field of landscape architecture in the 20th century. He is best known for his influential book “Gardens in the Modern Landscape” (1938), which explored the relations…Read More
Christopher Tunnard was a British-born landscape architect, writer, and educator who made significant contributions to the field of landscape architecture in the 20th century. He is best known for his influential book “Gardens in the Modern Landscape” (1938), which explored the relationship between modern architecture and landscape design.Tunnard was born in 1910 in England and studied at the University of Manchester and the Harvard Graduate School of Design. He worked as a landscape architect in England and the United States, and also taught at various universities, including Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania.In addition to “Gardens in the Modern Landscape,” Tunnard wrote several other books, including “The Art of Landscape Architecture” (1957) and “The New Japanese Garden” (1962). He also co-authored “Man-Made America: Chaos or Control?” (1965), which examined the impact of human intervention on the American landscape.Tunnard’s work was characterized by a modernist approach, emphasizing simplicity, functionality, and the integration of architecture and landscape. He was a pioneer in the use of aerial photography and site analysis in landscape design, and his ideas continue to influence contemporary landscape architecture.Overall, Christopher Tunnard’s legacy lies in his innovative ideas and writings, which have shaped the way we think about and design landscapes in the modern world.Read Less
Christopher Tunnard was a British-born landscape architect, writer, and educator who made significant contributions to the field of landscape architecture in the 20th century. He is best known for his influential book “Gardens in the Modern Landscape” (1938), which explored the relationship between modern architecture and landscape design.Tunnard was born in 1910 in England and studied at the University of Manchester and the Harvard Graduate School of Design. He worked as a landscape architect in England and the United States, and also taught at various universities, including Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania.In addition to “Gardens in the Modern Landscape,” Tunnard wrote several other books, including “The Art of Landscape Architecture” (1957) and “The New Japanese Garden” (1962). He also co-authored “Man-Made America: Chaos or Control?” (1965), which examined the impact of human intervention on the American landscape.Tunnard’s work was characterized by a modernist approach, emphasizing simplicity, functionality, and the integration of architecture and landscape. He was a pioneer in the use of aerial photography and site analysis in landscape design, and his ideas continue to influence contemporary landscape architecture.Overall, Christopher Tunnard’s legacy lies in his innovative ideas and writings, which have shaped the way we think about and design landscapes in the modern world.
Christopher Tunnard Career Highlights
- Tunnard studied architecture at the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London and later pursued a degree in landscape architecture at Harvard University.
- In 1937, Tunnard co-authored the book “Gardens in the Modern Landscape” with architect Sir Geoffrey Jellicoe, which became a seminal work in the field of landscape architecture.
- In 1939, Tunnard moved to the United States and began teaching at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design, where he became the first professor of landscape architecture.
- Tunnard’s teaching career also included positions at the University of Pennsylvania and the University of California, Berkeley.
- In 1956, Tunnard published his most famous work, “The Art of Landscape Architecture,” which explored the principles and techniques of modern landscape design.
- Tunnard was a founding member of the International Federation of Landscape Architects and served as its president from 1965 to 1968.
- In 1970, Tunnard was awarded the American Society of Landscape Architects’ Medal of Honor for his contributions to the profession.
Key Contributions by Christopher Tunnard
- Tunnard’s approach to landscape design was heavily influenced by the modernist movement, which emphasized simplicity, functionality, and the use of new materials and technologies.
- He believed that landscapes should be designed to serve a purpose and should be integrated with the surrounding architecture.
- Tunnard’s writings and teachings helped to shape the field of landscape architecture and introduced new ideas and techniques to the profession.
- He was a strong advocate for the preservation of natural landscapes and the use of native plants in design.
- Tunnard’s work also had a significant impact on the development of landscape architecture in Europe, particularly in the post-war reconstruction period.
What Sets Christopher Tunnard Apart
- Tunnard’s unique background in both architecture and landscape architecture allowed him to approach design from a multidisciplinary perspective.
- He was one of the first landscape architects to incorporate modernist principles into his work, which set him apart from his contemporaries.
- Tunnard’s emphasis on the functional and practical aspects of landscape design, rather than purely aesthetic considerations, was also a departure from traditional approaches.
- His writings and teachings were highly influential and helped to shape the direction of landscape architecture in the mid-20th century.
Takeaways
- Christopher Tunnard’s career highlights and key contributions demonstrate his significant impact on the field of landscape architecture.
- His innovative approach to design and his influential writings continue to inspire and inform landscape architects today.
- Tunnard’s multidisciplinary background and his emphasis on functionality and practicality set him apart from his contemporaries and helped to shape the modern landscape architecture profession.
- His work serves as a reminder of the importance of considering the relationship between the built environment and the natural world in design.