Meet Tim Zielke

“Each time I have a conversation with someone new and hear their story or interests I find myself motivated in ways I didn’t expect.”

How do you typically spend a day off when the work can wait?  

At least one day/morning of the weekend we try and get out on a hike up in the mountains, with either view or a mountain lake at the end to jump into.  I also used to be outdoors playing volleyball in the grass at Green Lake or on the beach at Golden Gardens but I’ve had to put that on hold for the time being.

Night in or night out? How do you spend it?

Night in, taking care of various veggies in the garden during the summer. Fires in the yard with a few close friends or neighbors. Long walks to get the body moving after sitting at my computer all day.

Coffee table books you love?

MC Escher art. How he is able to play with perception and change the way you look at things is always fun.

What are your hobbies?

Volleyball, computer games, board games, reading, hiking.

Coffee or tea? How do you take it?

Coffee black w/ cayenne. Gives that coffee a wonderful little kick trust me! I’ve already converted one or two at the office.

Favorite local cup?

Used to be the Java Bean in Ballard and their Mole Mocha as treat (spicy, chocolate, coffee… too much sugar.. but so worth it). So now I go down to Brothers Joe in Georgetown every once in a while since they have a similar one and pretty good food too.

Your go-to dinner recipe when at home?

Moroccan Pot Pie or Vij’s Yogurt and Tamarind Marinated Grilled chicken. Both sound complicated but are actually very simple.

Favorite local restaurant and your go-to order?

So many but I will limit it to just two! For dinner Gracia in Ballard for the Huarache or for brunch Gather for their Chicken and Waffles.

Who, what, where inspires you the most? 

People inspire me the most. Each time I have a conversation with someone new and hear their story or interests I find myself motivated in ways I didn’t expect. I have my own interests that I pursue, but what really motivates me is finding ways to help others achieve things they didn’t expect they could. 

Keys to productivity?

For me deadlines, lists, and a team that I can count on to keep me accountable. Having a good mentor the last few years here at MG2 has also helped tremendously.

Can you tell us how you remedy being in a creative funk? What puts you back on track?

Conversations that pull me out of my own head with folks willing to challenge me. Too many times when I’m stuck I end up circling over the same few phrases or lines.  I’ve found inspiration or shaking loose ideas from random conversations or deliberate ones within the office.

What’s one thing you keep at your desk at all times?

Snacks. I’m hungry most of the time.

What makes you feel ready to face the world? 

Honestly I’m not sure I ever feel ready. For me that is what makes each day exciting and a challenge. What do I have to learn today? What MEP/Structural/Owner (you name it) conflict do I have to coordinate? The friends, peers, family around me that I know I can always turn to. Some days, especially now, are harder than ever, but I know I have good people around me personally and professionally that I can turn to during those times. And I know I will be there for them when/if they need it.

What is your favorite thing about living in Seattle? 

Being in such an open minded city.

Favorite city/country/region to visit?

Most recent favorite is Portugal. I don’t think it is on everyone’s list of places to go, but it is such a beautiful gem. Both architecturally and naturally.

What is a piece of architecture you feel everyone should see at some point? 

Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Gaudi’s masterpiece is incredible to behold.

Best quarantine discovery? 

That I can actually work from home. I didn’t think I would be able to do it with various at home distractions.

Most looking forward to after quarantine?

Getting to play volleyball again and in person time with all my MG2 colleagues and friends.