Their ability to find those who could carry out their designs was essential to the extraordinary quality and quantity of their work. As accomplished craftsmen themselves, they commanded the respect of the very best artisans, who worked with them. Additionally, the brothers were blessed with an extraordinary ability to analyze, visualize and compose. They were confident, free from tradition and inspired by the unlimited opportunities for self-expression to be found in Southern California, and their engaging and modest manner drew an enlightened, prosperous clientele with the courage to explore new concepts. Within their progressive architectural designs can be felt a deep regard for the arts of other cultures, and a strong but subtle unity of site, structure, interiors, furnishings and accessories.
Every element is an independent entity, yet each plays an important role in the total composition.
Greene and Greene interiors are symphonies of rooms and furnishings, materials and joinery, textures and details. No element escaped the brothers' careful scrutiny and the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed. The lines are simple and straightforward, and the joinery is emphasized rather hidden. Pegs and dowels project from the surface to provide texture and scale while the beauty and grain of the wood is enhanced by the use of natural finishes. Special attention was given to the hand-rubbed surfaces to prevent discoloration from water marks.