Construction at Liliʻuokalani Center Reaches the Halfway Mark
The transformation of a largely vacant mid-rise building in the Kakaako neighborhood of Honolulu, Hawaii, has reached its halfway point. This revitalized flagship center aims to serve as a dynamic resource for Native Hawaiian youth, offering them a space to explore and nurture their passions. The new Liliʻuokalani Center, by Flansburgh Architects will feature a diverse array of facilities, including a teaching kitchen and café, maker-spaces, visual art studios, a music recording suite, a dance studio, a black box theatre, and a gymnasium. These amenities are designed to foster interdisciplinary connections, encouraging young adults with an interest in one field to explore others.
Key elements of the renovation include the addition of an enclosed gymnasium on the roof and the conversion of the existing rooftop pool into a culturally appropriate contemplative garden. The building’s exterior will be updated with glass walls to showcase the center’s vibrant activities. Inside, the extensive renovation of the former Honolulu Club will transform racquetball and squash courts into a black box theatre and music recital hall, while the existing fitness space will be reimagined as a dance studio. This comprehensive overhaul is set to breathe new life into the building, positioning it as a hub of creativity and cultural engagement.