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NATIVE HAWAIIAN CENTER AT PU‘ULOA

LEEWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE

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CLIENT

University of Hawai‘i

LOCATION

Pu‘uloa, Pearl City, O‘ahu

SIZE

22,000 sf

SERVICES

Architecture

Interior Design

Our Kīpuka is a respite from the storm. A place that over time and given the right conditions gradually permeates its stagnant surroundings igniting it with vitality. Out of something that has come to symbolize a void, something entirely lacking vibrancy–emerges the life-giving sanctuary that is Kīpuka.

DESCRIPTION

The mission of the Native Hawaiian Center at Pu‘uloa is to provide a trusted Kīpuka, where students learn and cultivate a sense of belonging rooted in Aloha ‘Āina. Design and documentation for interior renovation and expansion of the existing DA Building and an addition of a new Dance Studio and restroom building to better serve the needs of the Hawaiian Studies program. The renovation involved the selective demolition of interior finishes and the construction of new interior partitions, doors, flooring and ceilings. Existing electrical, AC, Plumbing, and Telecom systems were replaced. A portion of the existing DA exterior walls, including doors and windows were removed and replaced to allow for the expansion. The project improved the function and organization of spaces, allowing for larger study areas, additional offices, a lab, a dance studio and restroom.  Facility improvements include a dance studio, quiet study area, lounge, a native species garden and faculty and staff offices. Kīpuka also features a wet lab which is being used by the recently launched Ke Ala ‘Anu‘u, a program specifically geared toward successfully transferring students from Leeward CC to University of Hawai‘i–West O‘ahu as they pursue STEM-related degree pathways.

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