Mickey Muennig

Mickey Muennig (born George Kaye Muennig; April 20, 1935 – June 10, 2021) was an American architect. He was known for this organic architecture in Big Sur, along the California coast.

Early life and education George Kaye Muennig was born on April 20, 1935, in Joplin, Jasper County, Missouri. He got his nickname Mickey, by his older sister, due to his outward semblance with Mickey Mouse.

Career

"At a time when most architecture seems merely argumentative, these buildings (by Muennig) are relaxed and free, filled with...real joy." — Michael Sorkin, architectural critic He was a proponent of underground houses for both temperature control and fire proofing, as well as building on stilts. Muenning's design work for the Post Ranch Inn featured buildings with geometric inspiration by animals (such as the butterfly), as well as towers and cylinders that are a nod to Bruce Goff. The guest rooms were arranged in a village, made of individual small structures.

Death and legacy Muennig died at his home in Big Sur on June 10, 2021, at the age of 86. The Muennig archives are held at the University of Oklahoma, American School of Architecture Archive.

Works