Nestled in the rolling hills off Richmond Road, one of the remaining houses designed by noted architect Herb Greene still stands. The white modern structure, designed in 1966, settles into the hillside like a limestone rock. Inside, sunlight glimmers through numerous windows, giving those inside a view of the creek just beyond the house’s expansive deck. Greene designed the house with the natural environment in mind, fitting it seamlessly into the surrounding area. It was a house ahead of its time, with a sleek design focused on sustainability and ecology.
Homeowner Mark Payton, who purchased the house in 2022, was drawn to its sustainable design. The house now features solar panels and runs entirely on electricity. Its positioning on the land aids in heating and cooling, with strategically placed windows maximizing natural light and heat. Payton noted that even before the solar panels were installed, the house had low electric bills due to its efficient design. Greene’s vision for the house in 1973 was a predecessor to sustainable design, showcasing his innovative approach to architecture.
Herb Greene, now 94, was a pioneer of the organic architecture movement. His great-niece, Lila Cohen, an architect herself, is producing a documentary titled “Remembering the Future, with Herb Greene,” which explores his life and influence on organic architecture. Greene’s work, including the Prairie House in Norman, Oklahoma, was designed as a green building before the concept became mainstream. The Prairie House, made entirely of shingle boards and shakes, reflects the prairie landscape in its design, showcasing Greene’s ability to use simple materials to create rich and innovative structures.
In 1964, Greene was recruited by the University of Kentucky to teach architecture. During his time in Lexington, he designed several buildings, including the Unitarian Universalist Church on Clays Mill Road. The church’s design reflects the congregation’s values and principles, emphasizing a naturalistic worldview. Greene’s intentional design choices, such as angled windows that draw attention to the natural world, align with the Unitarian Universalist belief in the interconnectedness of all things.
While some of Greene’s buildings in Kentucky have been altered or destroyed, his legacy lives on through his philosophy and ideas. Cohen hopes that the documentary will help secure her great uncle’s legacy, preserving his innovative approach to architecture for future generations. Local events surrounding the film are planned for September, offering opportunities to learn more about Greene’s work and contributions to the field of architecture.
In conclusion, Herb Greene’s architectural legacy continues to inspire and influence the world of design. His innovative approach to sustainable and organic architecture, as showcased in the house off Richmond Road and other notable structures, serves as a testament to his vision and creativity. Through documentaries and events celebrating his work, Greene’s impact on the architectural landscape will endure for years to come.