As developers, we have always been proud of what we build. Each new community is unique and has features that differentiate it from other properties in our portfolio. This includes Nohona Hale, one of our newest developments in Hawai‘i.
As Marian Gushiken, director of real estate development in Hawai‘i said, “Nohona Hale began as a very tall order for a very tiny site.”
Through its design, amenities, and location, Nohona Hale achieved the goals it set out to accomplish – an innovative microunit development that fulfills the principles of smart growth, transit-oriented development, affordability, and sustainability.
Co-developed with Bronx Pro Group, Nohona Hale is 16 stories high with 111 studio units, and has gorgeous views of the Honolulu skyline. It combines urban living sensibility with modern design and Hawaiian charm.
The vision for Nohona Hale was inspired by the land itself and the Kakaʻako neighborhood of Honolulu. With less than 10,000 square feet to build on (which is about the size of a single-family home lot), we needed to optimize every square inch of space.
Each apartment has floor to ceiling windows, a full kitchen, bathroom, a convertible queen size sofa bed and a 70 square foot private lanai for outdoor living. The building amenities include surfboard, moped and bicycle storage, exercise room, and laundry facilities. The design of the building also facilitates community connection by featuring indoor/outdoor gathering spaces and a community garden. It is built using environmentally friendly features: LED lighting, low flow water fixtures, PV solar panels, and is LEED Gold certified.
Nohona Hale is centrally located and near public transit, City Hall, and the Ala Moana shopping mall. There is also a beautiful mural on the community garden terrace and exterior wall of Nohona Hale as a nod to Kakaʻako, a neighborhood known for its eclectic murals and artwork.
The property has been recognized by the affordable housing industry, architecture associations, and by civic leaders. This past year it was named a finalist for Affordable Housing Finance’s Readers’ Choice Award, IIDA Pacific Chapter – 2021 Ho‘ohuli Awards, and AIA Honolulu 2021 Design Awards – Mayor’s Choice.
Along with our partners, Bronx Pro Group, WCIT Architecture, Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA), and Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC), we have transformed an unsightly small parking lot into 111 beautiful and eco-friendly apartment homes for our residents. Nohona Hale is an outstanding example of what we can accomplish when we work together to redefine and reimagine affordable housing.
