Living on the Edge: Hawaii Hillside Development Regulation and an Exploitative Architectural Approach

Abstract

The hillsides and steep slopes of Hawaii present an array of complex design issues, hazards, and challenges to an architectural designer, the majority of which are obsolete or atypical in severity to those of a standard, non-sloping site. As such, governmental intervention has emerged, as well as the subsequent enforcement of site-specific regulations regarding the development of sloping terrain. Under these circumstances, a designer's approach must conform to the irregular terrain and its corresponding limitations, which will vary according to the degree of incline of the site. Prior to any inceptions of conceptual or schematic design, a clear and concise understanding of such regulations, their implications, and any other ensuing conditions and/or requirements is essential. Upon achievement of such qualifications, the challenge then posed, is the harmonious coalescence of program and place by exploitation of the site through the genius of architecture.