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Kauhale Kai Residence, Hawai'i,  | International Design Awards Winners
Kauhale Kai Residence, Hawai'i,  | International Design Awards Winners
Kauhale Kai Residence, Hawai'i,  | International Design Awards Winners
Kauhale Kai Residence, Hawai'i,  | International Design Awards Winners
Kauhale Kai Residence, Hawai'i,  | International Design Awards Winners
Kauhale Kai Residence, Hawai'i,  | International Design Awards Winners
Kauhale Kai Residence, Hawai'i,  | International Design Awards Winners
Kauhale Kai Residence, Hawai'i,  | International Design Awards Winners
Kauhale Kai Residence, Hawai'i,  | International Design Awards Winners
Kauhale Kai Residence, Hawai'i,  | International Design Awards Winners
Kauhale Kai Residence, Hawai'i,  | International Design Awards Winners

Kauhale Kai Residence, Hawai'i

Lead DesignersMark de Reus
Prize(s)Honorable Mention
Entry Description

This residence, on Hawai‘i’s South Kohala Coast, was inspired by the clients’ affinity for Hawai‘i and Polynesia, along with their appreciation for contemporary design, modern art, and the beauty of natural materials. The design intent was to create island architecture of this time and place, while reflecting Polynesian and Asia-Pacific cultures.

Conceptually, the home is organized as its own village, with a series of separate pavilions. The simple structures are crafted with a tropical vernacular and a modern sense of restraint.

Hipped-roof pavilions are the most visible expression of the home’s organization. Open spaces and gardens are sequenced around the pavilions, as are pools that punctuate the interstices. The experience is of living indoors and out, amidst gardens and water, with detailing that is rustic and refined, formal and informal.

Living spaces are accommodated within separate pavilions designated as Main Gathering, Master, Family, and Guest pavilions.

Stepped cedar ceilings in the Dining and Outdoor Living pavilions reference ancient tropical cultures. These two pavilions are connected by a shade trellis that frames a circular water feature — the wellspring of the home. The owner’s request for a formal, glass dining room floating on water was realized with a pavilion of sliding glass panels that sits within a pool that spills into a larger pool below. Inside, a coral focal wall features Balinese artifacts.

Durable, low-maintenance materials were chosen to support the modern architectural concept and accommodate the Hawaiian coastal setting. Exterior materials include: copper shingles, basalt site walls, coral columns, limestone pavers, steel doors and windows, cement plaster walls and bronze hardware. Interior materials include cedar ceilings, ‘ōhi‘a and teak hardwoods, sand-grain veneer plaster walls, limestone and granite. Photovoltaic solar panels are hidden behind the garage’s roof parapet.

This residence honors its location, its influences, and its inhabitants.