Kona Village
Walker Warner
Recipient
Kona Village rises from the remnants of a beloved hideaway after over a decade of stillness. Carefully conceived to exude organic, approachable luxury, the resort’s second chapter is inspired by the nuances of the destination and the original property that captured the hearts of travelers. What lies here now is an inviting, spirited sanctuary that immerses guests in the archetypal island experience while ushering in a forward-looking sustainable design.
The resort offers 150 traditional guest hale, a new spa, and five restaurants and bars. The design was guided by a pledge to be as minimally disruptive to the land as possible. Working to maintain the site’s structural integrity and archaeological landmarks, the original property’s relaxed Pacific Island style was respectfully restored while being elevated with modern touches and sustainable innovations. From the outset, the project had its sights on LEED Gold Certification, and all decisions were considered with this goal in mind.