Kona Village Resort Revitalised with Sustainable Design

In a blend of tradition and sustainability, Walker Warner Architects have transformed the Kona Village resort in Hawaii, reimagining the original 1960s hideaway that was destroyed by a tsunami in 2011. Situated on Hawaii’s Big Island, the new resort spans 33 hectares and showcases innovative design features, including thatched roofs made of recycled plastic.

GALLERY  

The San Francisco-based studio sought to honour the natural landscape and the site’s history while incorporating modern sustainability principles. The resort, located on a horseshoe-shaped site along Kahuwai Bay, is comprised of 150 guest rooms housed in hut-like structures, known as hale, which reflect traditional Hawaiian homes. These structures blend seamlessly with the island’s natural terrain, providing an immersive experience for visitors.

Recycled plastic plays a significant role in the resort’s design, with the roofs of the hale using a modern twist on traditional thatching. This use of sustainable materials, coupled with wood-framed structures and coconut tree husk-inspired siding, reinforces Walker Warner’s commitment to minimising environmental impact. The resort’s layout also maximises natural breezes, reducing reliance on air conditioning, and many guest rooms feature private lanais to encourage outdoor living.

Several of the hale are elevated on stilts, offering sweeping views of the ocean. Along with guest rooms, the resort includes various amenities such as restaurants, bars, a cultural centre, and a spa. Visitors can learn about the site’s history, including its previous life as a fishing village and its connection to Hawaiian cultural heritage.

Sustainability was a guiding principle throughout the project. Numerous structures have earned LEED Gold certification, and nearly all of the resort’s energy needs are met by a solar field with over 8,000 photovoltaic panels. The team also worked with local organisations to salvage materials from the original resort, benefiting the surrounding community.

Walker Warner Architects’ respectful blend of traditional Hawaiian design and sustainable innovation brings new life to the beloved Kona Village, offering a luxurious yet eco-friendly retreat for visitors.

Images by Douglas Friedman via Dezeen

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