Kahua Kuili, a family “camp” on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a place where memories are made. We created an atmosphere that took everyone away from daily noise and helped them build lasting relationships with friends and family.

The compound is the epitome of a Hawaiian summer camp blending indoors and out. The design features a camp layout with various hales (buildings) centralized around an expansive lawn. The communal kitchen, lanais, tiki bar, and luau picnic area allow everyone to move about freely. Areas for private reading and reflection provide the client with areas of relaxation.

Inspired by the backdrop of the pu’u (hills), the cabin bedrooms were given pu’u names. A Japanese ofuro bathtub and shower are reminiscent of old plantation Hawaii, and jalousie windows form a veiled, open-air privacy that lets in the breezes.

The client gave the team creative license to be quirky, such as allowing them to install a large map of the Big Island to serve as the artistic focal point of the living room and hide the television when not in use.

The successful result was due to the collaboration of Philpotts Interiors, Walker Warner Architects, Maryl Construction and David Tamura Landscapes.