Projects

When you decide to build a house in Maui, you’ll realize that you’ll meet a lot of new people very quickly. Architects. Designers. Project Managers. Inspectors. And a whole lot of craftsmen. Many people who are building a home believe that they are the same things. There are similarities with both occupations, and they both […]

When it’s time to start a commercial project in Maui, you may feel like you have several different projects going on at once that you’re managing on your own. Scheduling, budgets, and other things can cause a project to escalate without oversight. But while you’re trying to build something, you may find yourself handling a […]

Whether you’re doing a home remodel, building an ohana on your property, or an entire house, you’ll be talking to multiple people before the job is done. During the project, there are several people involved. Two important people are the architect and the contractor. Why? • The architect designs and draws the project • The […]

For all its beauty, people love to move and build here. To keep the Valley Isle from becoming over-built with different types of structures, Maui has a series of building codes to control unfettered construction. The codes are designed to govern the design, construction, repair or alteration, and maintenance of structures of all kinds to […]

You’ve probably already consulted with an architect if a new home in Maui is in your future. Buying an existing Maui home instead may mean you’ll be doing some remodeling. Should you consult with an architect when remodeling in Maui? The answer is yes, and for a handful of reasons. Unlike new construction, where you […]

One of the unique parts of Hawaiian culture is the reverence for embracing both the past and the present and making them work together. On Maui, Ohanas are one such concept. The word literally means “family.” However, the concept of “ohana” isn’t limited to blood relatives. Ohana embraces and includes one’s larger circle of associates, […]

TV renovation shows and websites like Pinterest can give nearly anyone the idea that remodeling their Maui home is a great idea. Maybe your friend, relative or neighbor has a new kitchen or bathroom that you’ve fallen in love with. Or you’ve just tired of wanting something that your home doesn’t have, from the interior […]

Building a home or commercial building anywhere in Hawaii lends itself to ensuring that the architectural style fits in with the environment. What’s even more ideal is to design and build a home or facility that is not only suitable, but sustainable. Building a “green” home or building can encompass a wide range of options, […]

Rainwater collection—also known as rainwater harvesting—is a centuries-old practice that’s becoming popular among rural and urban residents alike. It helps utilize freely available water, as well as helps with conservation, and less water taken from a main water supply. Water that comes from rain is in its purest form, and is generally free of pollutants. […]

One important aspect of building and/or renovating home in Maui is to make sure that what you’re doing does not harm or disrupt the environment or the landscape. For those looking to go further, building an eco-friendly or “green” home is one more way to decrease their carbon footprint and do more to live a […]

Hawaii’s style of architecture is a compendium of different architectural styles that are either native to the Islands or brought in my various incomers. The rich culture and range of input reflect the range of contributing styles. Today’s Hawaii has everything from the simplest of structures to the most elaborate, and everything in between. The […]

One of the most requested features in many new home construction projects is the inclusion of alternative energy. Wind, water, solar and other forms of generating power can be used alone or in combination to provide some or most of a home’s electricity needs. Maui, as well as all of Hawaii, has plenty of renewable […]

The aging of the so-called “baby boomers” in the US comes along with its own sets of concerns. Not every senior is destined for assisted living or a nursing home, and many choose to stay in their homes for the rest of their lives. But aging has its own sets of issues, many of which […]

Environmental protection is an issue around the world, but Maui, as well as the entire state of Hawaii, is very sensitive to environmental issues. Our laws and regulations are made with preserving our unique environment in mind. We want to make sure that everything stays the way our ancestors left it to us, and that […]

If you’ve considered living in a condominium in Maui, you may have seen the initials “CPR.” They’re common here, but not everyone understands what they’re all about. A condo is similar to an apartment but has more in common with a single-family home. Condos were created to help ease the housing crunch in the state […]

Building “green” is one of the newest trends in home building and renovation throughout the US. Nowhere is it a better idea than in Maui, since we have abundant sunlight year-round. Using solar to save on energy costs is one of the most requested features in both new construction and home renovations. Solar-generated energy is […]

Advances in architecture technology make nearly everything easier, efficient, and faster than before. Nowhere is that more evident than in architecture. Computer-assisted drawing (CAD) has become the norm, along with a host of other tools that bring a wide range of possibilities to the drawing table. Because of these new technologies, the role of the […]

During the course of a renovation, you’ll have a number of different inspections before your work is finished. These County inspectors attest that any construction project meets the codes and regulations in Maui County and the State of Hawaii. They also enforce zoning and building codes as needed to ensure that buildings are safe. Occasionally, […]

The Island of Maui has 80 beaches that welcome visitors from around the world. It makes sense that many of those visitors become permanent residents. Building a beach home can be a dream come true, but you still must keep in mind the practical considerations that come with a home on or near a Maui […]

More and more, Maui is “going green” as homeowners and commercial property owners alike seek out options. Solar systems and other alternative forms of energy creation are ideal for a place like Maui. There are multiple possibilities for making a Maui home or business more eco-friendly. Small steps with things like rainwater collection and alternative […]

Building a home in Maui is easier said than done. It’s a long process that begins with an idea and a budget, and eventually becomes your home in one of the most beautiful climates in the US. One of the many moving parts of the machine is the multiple permits required to make it all […]

It’s a term that means the connection of humans with nature, and the affinity of life with other living systems. If you’ve never heard the term “Biophilic Design Architecture,” you’re not alone. But embracing biophilic architecture is natural in Maui, where the land and the ancient culture are taken very seriously. We’ve previously discussed different […]

If you’re building or remodeling a property, you’re familiar with zoning codes that you’re required to follow. Maui’s building codes were adopted in 1960, and have been amended many times to meet the needs of residents, homeowners, and builders. Unfortunately, what has also happened is that the zoning codes have created additional layers of bureaucracy […]

It’s the emergency you hope you never have to think about: fire protection. Fast-spreading and quickly destructive, fire can turn your home, office, or other commercial property into ashes in a matter of minutes. Fire can leave behind millions in damage, as well as inherent dangers to the property’s occupants. Adding fire protection solutions to […]