Designed by Philpotts Interiors in collaboration with de Reus Architects and VITA Planning + Landscape Architecture, Coral House is a vacation retreat that merges sustainability and cultural heritage, and modern comfort. Perched along Maui’s southern shore, this LEED Silver-certified home serves as a multigenerational sanctuary, where thoughtful design fosters both connection and tranquility.
Philpotts Interiors: Honoring Heritage Through Design
Honolulu-based Philpotts Interiors has long been known for integrating Hawaiian culture into contemporary design. Founded by Mary Philpotts McGrath, the firm continues to blend nature, history, and craftsmanship under the leadership of Marion Philpotts-Miller, Lowell Tom, and Holly Boling Ruiz. For Coral House, the design team, led by Anne Tanaka, worked closely with the homeowners to ensure the residence reflects a deep respect for the local environment and traditions.
Nature as the Foundation
Coral House is designed to exist in harmony with its surroundings. Overlooking the ocean and framed by lush mountain landscapes, the residence is intentionally open, allowing natural light and ventilation to shape the indoor experience. Expansive windows and lanais blur the boundaries between interior and exterior, making the home feel like an extension of the land itself. The use of locally sourced materials strengthens this connection, reinforcing a sense of place unique to Hawaii.
A Multigenerational Retreat
At its core, Coral House is designed for families to gather and create lasting memories. With four bedrooms and four bathrooms, the layout balances communal living with private spaces for solitude and reflection. The seamless indoor-outdoor flow makes it easy to transition from shared meals to quiet moments by the ocean. Wellness is also a central theme, with spaces crafted to encourage relaxation and mindfulness—whether through shaded garden nooks or open lanais that invite in the coastal breeze.
Cultural Craftsmanship and Sustainability
Philpotts Interiors infused the home with subtle yet meaningful cultural details. Traditional Hawaiian craftsmanship is woven into the design through kapa-inspired wall coverings, intricate wood carvings, and teak leis displayed in the entryway. Locally sourced Ohia wood was used throughout, highlighting the firm’s dedication to eco-conscious practices and authenticity. This approach extends to the home’s LEED Silver certification, reflecting a commitment to minimizing waste and reducing environmental impact.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Coral House |
| Location | Overlooking Maui’s southern shore, Hawaii |
| Function | Vacation Home / Multigenerational Family Sanctuary |
| Certification | LEED Silver |
| Bedrooms/Bathrooms | 4 Bedrooms / 4 Bathrooms |
| Design Firm | Philpotts Interiors |
| Lead Designer | Anne Tanaka |
| Collaborators | de Reus Architects and VITA Planning + Landscape Architecture |
| Design Highlights | Integration with nature, expansive views, indoor-outdoor flow, wellness focus, sustainable practices |
| Cultural Elements | Teak leis, kapa-inspired wall coverings, wood carvings, locally sourced Ohia wood |
