Hawaiian Architecture is a unique architectural style developed and used mainly in the Hawaiian Islands, various other places and structures, especially suggestive of the native inhabitants of Hawaii and the unique environment and lifestyle they enjoy. It has its own unique characteristics which make it a challenge to be imitated. Unlike what is believed by many, the Hawaiian Archipelago was not a group of islands, nor were they carved out of coral reefs, but it’s a large group of islands made up of hundreds of small islands. The islands were originally settled using volcanoes. Unlike other countries, whose cities are built on flat ground, most of the housing developments and constructions in Hawaii are on slopes. This is because the hills provide an ideal backdrop for building with more elegance.
The first five styles of Hawaiian architecture all have their own distinctive characteristics. The earliest form of Hawaiian architecture, which can clearly be traced back to the days of HinaMakaua (the day the Hawaiian Islands were first discovered by Captain James Cook in 1776), can be considered the traditional style of Hawaiian architecture, or hale o lei. This style can be traced back to the hale o lei of the period of Kamehameha I. It includes mostly flat roofs, square or rectangular walls, and pillars made of blocks.
The types of Hawaiian architecture one can choose from
Another earliest form of Hawaiian architectural style is known as Na Pali, which was used by Na Nu’uanu Kea (the name given to most of the local leaders and rulers by King Kamehameha I). This architectural style is characterized by long and narrow colonnades and Palisades. These buildings almost always include a staircase in their design. However, the trend was changing with the passage of time and this architectural style started to become more complicated and ornate in nature. One notable example of this type of building is the exquisite Hanauma Palace which is located on the Big Island.
There are many architectural styles that evolved throughout time and Hawaii has seen quite a few of these. However, the trend gradually changed when the white monopoly ended and competition opened up for the production of wooden structures for different uses. In addition, the islands were subjected to European influence and so many buildings that resemble their European counterparts were created. Nowadays, the trend is moving towards hula-themed structures which are very common in the Hawaiian Islands.
The option of choosing from traditional and modern architecture
Besides the old and traditional Hawaiian architecture, you can also see a lot of modern buildings having the same look. These changes have been brought about by the new home design trends that have swept through the entire world. New home styles are based on efficiency and space utilization and many times feature the conservation of resources. Many new home styles have the elements of nature integrated into them so that you can live in a natural paradise almost anywhere on your property. This is done to keep the place at the same temperature and a certain humidity all the time.
In fact, these new styles of architecture have become a part of the rich Hawaiian culture over the years. Indeed, these native Hawaiians had an amazing talent for the art of making simple structures and houses that have survived to this very day. Over time, this skillful art of the old and the new styles of architecture gradually evolved into the elegant Victorian-style homes that we know today. One can find the best Hawaiian architecture from websites like tropical-architect.com.