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It starts with paint: Louisville professor talks Chrome Houses in Old Highlands

A University of Louisville Professor who paints homes chromatic colors believes it reduces crime and increases happiness and pride

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The definition of "hostile architecture" is "an intentional design strategy that uses elements of the built environment to guide or restrict behavior in urban space as a form of crime prevention or order maintenance."

This design strategy takes form in bright, Victorian homes marking the successful revamp of Old Highlands. 

"Painting is the cheapest way to really renew a house and sparkle it with revitalization," said Dr. John Gilderbloom, a UofL professor, author and lover of old, bright-colored homes. 

He drove around his neighborhood, showing us some of his favorites, and introduced us to one of his neighbors who painted his own home.

Dr. Gilderbloom talked about Old Highlands' past. He said before the painted homes, there was lots of blight and crime, like some of our other Louisville neighborhoods currently struggling with crime. 

"This once-dilapidated neighborhood is now re-energized and exciting and prosperous as well," Dr. Gilderbloom said. 

If you're interested in learning more about chromatic homes, you can click here to purchase Dr. Gilderbloom's book on the topic.

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