Hale Ma’alahi

Situated on a crease between two distinct microclimates on the Big Island, the design of Hale Ma’alahi, or “simple house,” is shaped equally by its upland ranch setting and program. On its “wet side,” the house forms intimate connections with lush rainforest descending to a gulch stream below. On its “dry side,” it opens to expansive views and broad pasturelands. The house responds to this dichotomy through its form; it rises as it transitions from immediate to distant views as well as directing rainwater toward the natural watershed.

Architecture: Walker Warner Architects
Principal: Greg Warner
Project Manager: Sharon Okada
Architectural Staff: John Pierson, Michael Boes, Sandrine Carmantrand
Interiors: Homeowner in collaboration with Mio Source Design Consultants
Landscape: David Y. Tamura Associates
Builder: Quality Builders, Inc.
Photography: Matthew Millman

Situated on a crease between two distinct microclimates on the Big Island, the design of Hale Ma’alahi, or “simple house,” is shaped equally by its upland ranch setting and program. On its “wet side,” the house forms intimate connections with lush rainforest descending to a gulch stream below. On its “dry side,” it opens to expansive views and broad pasturelands. The house responds to this dichotomy through its form; it rises as it transitions from immediate to distant views as well as directing rainwater toward the natural watershed.