Highlights
Project Name: Hale Makana O Moʻiliʻili
Location: 2139 Algoroba Street, Honolulu, HI 96826
Project Completion Date: 4/28/23
Construction Value: $25,710,172
Project Size (SF): 52,000 SF / .5 Acres
Collaborator/ Contractor: Moss & Associates
Developer/ Owner: Ikenakea Development
Lead Design Firm: AHL
Lead Designer: Lester Ng
Photographer: Olivier Koning Photography; Andy Stenz, The Image Group (TIG)
A Blend of Tradition and Modern Design
The Hale Makana O Moʻiliʻili in urban Honolulu is a standout example of how modern architecture can honor tradition while embracing contemporary needs. Designed by AHL, this six-story affordable housing project for seniors beautifully integrates with the surrounding Mo?ili?ili community. The building materials were carefully selected to mimic the construction of nearby single-family homes, creating a harmonious blend with the neighborhood’s aesthetic. The project’s design thoughtfully respects the cultural and historical context of the area, drawing inspiration from the site’s past, including the old baseball stadium that once stood there.
Sustainable and Efficient Living Spaces
Sustainability is at the heart of Hale Makana O Moʻiliʻili. The building is LEED Gold-certified, showcasing an array of energy-efficient features that reduce its environmental impact. Each of the 105 residential units—comprising 80 studios and 25 one-bedroom apartments—boasts modern finishes, energy-efficient appliances, and high acoustic value materials to minimize noise transfer. The use of renewable, wood composite cementitious siding not only enhances fire resistance but also minimizes the building’s carbon footprint. Additionally, recycled materials are utilized throughout the project, further promoting sustainability and reducing waste.
Multifunctional Community Spaces
Community is a central theme in the design of Hale Makana O Moʻiliʻili. The building includes a variety of multifunctional spaces aimed at fostering social interaction and cultural engagement among residents. The community center serves as a hub for gatherings and cultural practices, while the outdoor lobby offers a shaded, pleasant space for socializing. The computer lab, equipped with modern technology, helps residents stay connected and access online resources easily. The shared laundry facility is another example of thoughtful design, featuring modern appliances that can be operated via a smartphone app, allowing residents to relax in the nearby lobby while waiting for laundry alerts.
Innovative Construction and Design
Hale Makana O Moʻiliʻili is not just an architectural feat; it’s an innovative approach to urban housing. The building’s concrete podium construction protects against tsunami surges, supporting a five-story, fire-resistant wood-framed structure. This makes it one of the tallest wood buildings in Hawai?i. The design features a mix of vertical board and batten, smooth siding, and sloped hipped roofs with shingles, creating a visually appealing structure that maximizes density and provides stunning views. The project’s accelerated construction schedule, reduced costs, and early tenant occupancy highlight the benefits of this new building type.
Thoughtful Landscaping and Environmental Design
The landscape design of Hale Makana O Moʻiliʻili further enhances its sustainability credentials. Native, drought-resistant plants are used to minimize irrigation needs, promoting water conservation. The site is also designed with permeable pavement, which allows stormwater to infiltrate the ground, reducing runoff and erosion. This thoughtful approach to environmental design ensures that the building not only serves its residents well but also contributes positively to the local ecosystem.
Hale Makana O Moʻiliʻili is a prime example of how modern architecture can seamlessly blend tradition, community, and sustainability. It sets a new standard for affordable senior living in urban environments, proving that thoughtful design and innovative construction can create spaces that are both functional and inspiring.
