Green Roofs - Living Architecture Monitor - Winter 2012 - (Page 13)

“His creativity, combined with his dry wit and affability, attracted a large following, and many regard him as the ‘father of modern earth-sheltered architecture” I n an era that seems to be increasingly polarized regarding environmental ethics, it pays to consider the holistic approach of the late environmental architect, Malcolm Wells. As a draftsman, illustrator, university lecturer, columnist, cartoonist, solar consultant, and writer, Malcolm’s insight took on many forms. Subsequently, his philosophies were far-reaching and widely received. His skillful architectural drawings and illustrations are equally indicative of his innovativeness as are his philosophical writings. At the end of his career, Malcolm had successfully published fifteen books on the problems with and solutions to modern architecture. His creativity, combined with his dry wit and affability, attracted a large following, and many regard him as the ‘father of modern earth-sheltered architecture.’ This type of architecture places an emphasis on eco-friendly construction, particularly with building underground. In doing so, the construction is both aesthetically pleasing and allows for the cohabitation of humans and wild species. What differentiated Malcolm “Mac” Wells from other environmental architects was his inclusive approach to spreading his message. In 1982, he published a book called ‘The Children’s Solar Energy Book (Even Grownups Can Understand)’ that uses creative cartoons, unique characters, and clear explanations of solar technology. Other titles include ‘How To Build an Underground House ‘and ‘How To Buy Solar Heating (Without Getting Burnt!)’. Each book teaches, engages, and clairvoyantly explains mankind’s responsibility to minimize its ecological footprint. His overarching message was a simple one: the ethics of environmental architecture are uncomplicated and universal. After passing the state exam for architecture in 1953, he worked for ten years on various architectural commissions in the United States and abroad. During these years, his career diverted as he began focusing on more earthfriendly architecture. His main reason for doing so was the realization that many of his projects, such as the construction of the RCA pavilion for the 1964 World’s Fair in New York City, lacked permanence. Many of these projects were designed to last for a mere two years. Other projects, such as paved parking lots, represented the massive destruction of natural ecosystems. While it may have been both easy and lucrative to remain on his current career path, Mac followed his heart. In one of his journals he wrote, “I woke up one day to the fact that the Earth’s surface was made for living plants, not industrial plants.” He shifted his attention to writing about earth-sheltered architecture, BELOW: Malcolm Wells gallery Image provided by: Anne Sholley LIVING ARCHITECTURE MONITOR / WINTER 2012 / 13

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Green Roofs - Living Architecture Monitor - Winter 2012

Green Roofs - Living Architecture Monitor - Winter 2012
Contents
From the Founder
Bookshelf
New Kid on the Green Roof
New Incentives for Green Roofs
On the Roof with Ben Flanner
Award Winning Green Roof and Wall Projects Represent!
Awards of Excellence Profiles
CitiesAlive 2012 – Building a Legacy of Outstanding Performance in Chicago!
Recognizing the Pioneer that was Malcolm Wells
Green roof and wall performance standards volunteers required!
Plant Profile: Thymus
Project Profile: Green Wall Maintenance Madness
GRP in Focus: Mary Ann Uhlmann
Project Profile: Healthy Haven for Community Members
A Positive Outlook for Urban Greening of Vacant Lots
A Green Space is a Clean Space
The Ambassador Program
Professional Calendar
New Corporate Members
GRHC Buyers Guide
Back to Planning’s Roots

Green Roofs - Living Architecture Monitor - Winter 2012