Anaha —which translates into Reflection of Light in Hawaiian—was designed to capture and reflect the light of the Pacific Ocean as well as the dramatic and ever-changing sky in Honolulu. Set within the Ward Village, this multi-family residential project is informed by native Hawaiian plants and traditions, paying homage to the natural beauty and history of Honolulu.
Anaha is oriented with its long axis perpendicular to the shoreline to preserve sight lines from Mauka (mountains) to Makai (sea). At the ground floor, subtle stone finish differences— from bush-hammered to honed Cremino stone paving— reveal a wave pattern. This paving is mirrored and repeated across the multiple levels of open space, connecting the site vertically and materially.
A series of terraces and ramps weave through a reflecting pool , which culminates in the ‘Piko’ firepit. Piko in Hawaiian is the word for the navel, where life begins, and is a symbol of peace and tranquility. Framing the firepit and reflecting pool, the largest living wall in Hawaii— featuring over 8,000 native plants— connects the interior and exterior lobby space, moving through the glazing.
Inspired by the tides and wave patterns of the beaches of Honolulu, the pool deck features undulating terraces that mimic coral growth patterns. At the end of the deck a transparent-bottom lap pool extends out towards the Ocean, revealing the bustling city life that passes below. In addition to creating a space for recreation, the pool reflects the ever-changing quality of light and sky.
Collaborators: SCB Architects, Brownlie and Lee, Albert C. Kobayashi Inc., Takano Nakamura Landscaping, Pacific Aquascapes