Conceptual Design of Kewalo Basin and Kupu Hawai‘i’s Youth Facility

Abstract

Situated along the coastline of the urban development of Kaka’ako, Kewalo Basin is destined to become an attractive urban space for community interaction. While more housing is currently under development, the need for community and public space is needed. Operating the site is a nonprofit organization that gives opportunities to under resourced youth, preparing them for the future. In this final project, the student was challenged to design an urban landscape that faces the problems of climate change and future sea level rise. The design process involved site visits with clients and architects, conducting site analysis and extensive research. With the data collected, schematic phases of design was operated through a series of sketches and study models. Within a two-month timeline, the student was able to design an architectural vision with the assistance of local architect firms, Group 70 and PBR Hawai`i. The project resulted in an urban space fit for multi-generational uses where people can interact together. The site was strategically designed to take advantage of Hawai`i’s natural resources while also emphasizing on concepts shared from Hawaiian culture. A two-story facility was also designed to provide room for a variety of public spaces and private classrooms, giving Hawai`i’s youth a future to live by.