The implications of this strategy extend well beyond the synthesis of specific coordination complexes. Jin and colleagues offer a systematic alternative to the serendipity-driven isolation of metastable topological states. Looking forward, translating these principles to macromolecular systems, such as mechanically interlocked polymers, offers a pathway to advanced materials. Incorporating molecular mortise-and-tenon joints as cross-linking nodes could yield networks with adaptive stress dissipation and enhanced toughness, ultimately paving the way for the development of next-generation smart topological materials.