Kenneth William Roehrig (November 2, 1907 â September 11, 1969) was an American architect known for his contributions to the architectural landscape of Hawaii.
Kenneth William Roehrig was born on November 2, 1907, in Oakland, California. He attended the University of California, Berkeley in 1927, before graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in architecture in 1937.
After completing his education, Roehrig moved to Hawaii, where he joined the architectural practice of Charles William Dickey in 1937, 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. In 1969, Roehrig was named an AIA Fellow.
Roehrig was partner at the firm Merrill, Roehrig, Onodera & Kinder, who were responsible for Seaboard Finance Building (1956), and the Liberty Bank (1963) projects.
Roehrig's contributions to architecture in Hawaii are recognized through his leadership within the AIA and his influence on mid-20th-century Hawaiian architecture.
Roehrig was involved in various projects throughout his career, contributing to Hawaii's mid-century modern architecture:
Roehrig died on September 11, 1969, at the age of 61, at Queen's Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. He was cremated, and interred at Homelani Memorial Park in Hilo, Hawaii.
His son Stanley Roehrig was a lawyer, and politician in Hilo, Hawaii.