# Kenneth William Roehrig

Kenneth William Roehrig (November 2, 1907 – September 11, 1969) was an American architect known for his contributions to the architectural landscape of Hawaii.

## Early life and education

Kenneth William Roehrig was born on November 2, 1907, in Oakland, California. He attended the University of California, Berkeley before graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in architecture in 1937.

## Career

After completing his education, Roehrig moved to Hawaii, where he joined the architectural practice of Charles William Dickey, a prominent figure in Hawaiian architecture known for developing the distinctive "Dickey roof" style. This early experience with Dickey influenced Roehrig's architectural style and career trajectory. It also influenced his architectural approach, emphasizing the integration of buildings with their natural surroundings and the use of local materials.
In 1945, Roehrig became the president of the Hawaii Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). During his career, Roehrig was involved in designing several buildings that contributed to Hawaii's mid-century architectural heritage.
Roehrig's works include the Goodsill House, designed in 1952, an example of mid-century modern architecture in Hawaii. Additionally, he designed the Pauling House in 1957, known for its integration with the natural landscape and use of local materials.
In 1966, Roehrig designed the Thurston Memorial Chapel at Punahou School, a landmark of mid-century modern architecture in Honolulu. That same year, he designed the Davies Memorial Chapel at Hawaii Preparatory Academy, which incorporates native materials and a harmonious design.
Roehrig was partner at the firm Merrill, Roehrig, Onodera & Kinder, who were responsible for Seaboard Finance Building (1956) and the Liberty Bank (1963) projects.

## Notable works

Kenneth Roehrig was involved in various projects throughout his career, contributing to Hawaii's mid-century modern architecture:
* Goodsill House (1952): This residential project is an example of mid-century modern architecture in Hawaii.
* Pauling House (1957): Known for its integration with the natural landscape and use of local materials.
* Marks Building (1957): This multi-level parking structure addressed downtown Honolulu’s parking shortage and featured cast stone vertical fins and natural lava rock.
* Liberty Bank Building (1963): This early International Style office building features subtle Asian motif banner decorations.
* Thurston Memorial Chapel at Punahou School (1966): A landmark of mid-century modern architecture in Honolulu.
* Davies Memorial Chapel at Hawaii Preparatory Academy (1966): This chapel incorporates native materials and a harmonious design.
* Juliet Rice Wichman Museum (1917): Museum addition to the Albert Spencer Wilcox Building / Kauaʻi Museum.
* Honolulu Iron Works (1973): A notable renovation project that preserved a historical industrial site in Honolulu.
* Bishop Museum Planetarium and Observatory (1960s): Part of a major expansion at the museum.

## Personal life

Roehrig and his wife Ethel, had several children: Stanley Herbert, Christopher John, Maria, Roberta, and Jill. Roehrig died on September 11, 1969, at the age of 61, in Honolulu, Hawaii. He was interred in Hilo, Hawaii. Roehrig's contributions to architecture in Hawaii are recognized through his leadership within the AIA and his influence on mid-20th-century Hawaiian architecture.