20 Best Architectural Buildings in Hawaii: Discover Iconic Structures in Paradise

Hawaii is a treasure trove of architectural marvels that blend cultural elements with modern design.

From traditional structures to contemporary masterpieces, the state boasts an array of buildings that captivate both locals and visitors.

Which buildings stand out among the vast landscape of Hawaiian architecture?

These include iconic residences, public buildings, and unique landmarks that reflect the island’s history and spirit.

Exploring these structures offers insight into the unique architectural heritage of Hawaii.

1. Iolani Palace

‘Iolani Palace is a historic landmark located in downtown Honolulu, Hawaii. Built in 1882, it served as the royal residence for King Kalākaua and Queen Liliʻuokalani.

The palace blends European architecture with traditional Hawaiian elements.

Its grand halls and intricate designs reflect the cultural heritage of Hawaii.

For more details, visit Iolani Palace.

2. Bishop Museum

The Bishop Museum, situated in the historic Kalihi district of Honolulu, is the largest museum in Hawaiʻi.

Founded in 1889, it boasts the world’s largest collection of Polynesian cultural artifacts.

The museum’s architecture showcases the earliest use of bluestone in Hawaiʻi and introduces Romanesque Revival style.

Key exhibit areas include the Hawaiian Hall and Pacific Hall. Each gallery provides immersive experiences into Hawaiian and Pacific cultures.

The museum is open daily, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas, with various ticket prices for adults, seniors, and children.

3. Kawaiahao Church

Kawaiahao Church, often called the “Westminster Abbey of Hawaii,” is a historic Congregational church located in Downtown Honolulu.

Built between 1836 and 1842, it was constructed using approximately 14,000 slabs of coral rock sourced from a nearby reef.

This church has been a site for many royal events, including weddings and funerals.

Its facade features three round-arched portals and four pilasters, providing a symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

4. USS Arizona Memorial

The USS Arizona Memorial stands as a tribute to the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

This somber monument marks the final resting place of over 1,100 sailors and Marines.

Designed by Alfred Preis, the memorial was completed in 1962.

The white, reinforced-concrete structure spans the sunken hull of the USS Arizona.

More than two million visitors come each year to pay their respects and reflect on the events that led the United States into World War II.

5. Honolulu Museum of Art

The Honolulu Museum of Art, founded in 1922 by Anna Rice Cooke, is the largest art museum in Hawaii.

It houses a vast collection of Asian and Pan-Pacific art, displaying Hawaiian cultural pieces and international works.

The museum’s architecture blends local design with international styles, creating a unique and welcoming space.

The building itself is a work of art with carefully crafted details.

Visitors can explore galleries filled with diverse artworks from various time periods and regions, making it a must-see destination for art enthusiasts.

For more information, visit the Honolulu Museum of Art.

6. Aliʻiolani Hale

Aliʻiolani Hale, located in downtown Honolulu, has served as the home of the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court since 1874.

This historic building was commissioned by King Kamehameha V and constructed between 1871 and 1874.

The structure uses Portland cement and reinforced-concrete-block techniques introduced from England.

It features a symmetrical facade, a central clock tower, and an arched entrance.

A gold-leaf statue of Kamehameha the Great stands prominently in front of the building.

Aliʻiolani Hale offers free public tours showcasing Hawaiʻi’s legal history and landmark court cases.

For more details, visit the Historic Hawaii Foundation or SAH ARCHIPEDIA.

7. Huliheʻe Palace

Huliheʻe Palace is an important historic site located in Kailua-Kona, Hawaiʻi.

Built in 1838, it was initially a vacation home for Hawaiian royalty, including King Kalākaua and Queen Kapiʻolani.

The palace features a blend of Hawaiian and Western architectural styles.

It showcases furniture, artifacts, and royal belongings, reflecting the unique cultural fusion of Hawaii.

Visitors can explore its two stories and see royal bedrooms and ancient tools.

Nestled on Aliʻi Drive, Huliheʻe Palace is surrounded by scenic views, including small beaches and the Kiope Pond, adding to its charm.

8. Lāhainā Historic District

Lāhainā Historic District on Maui offers a glimpse into Hawaii’s rich past.

Covering about 1,665 acres, this district was added to the National Historic Landmarks Program in 1962.

The Old Lahaina Courthouse, built in 1859, is a key attraction. It once served as the center of government during the Monarchy period.

Lāhainā’s Front Street reflects six major historical eras, blending natural beauty with cultural significance.

Visitors can explore historic buildings and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Learn more about the history and sites at Lāhainā Historic District.

9. St. Benedict’s Painted Church

St. Benedict’s Painted Church is a unique landmark in Captain Cook, Hawaii.

It was built by Father John Velghe in 1899 using simple materials like house paint and wood.

The church’s interior is adorned with vibrant murals depicting biblical scenes.

It is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to come during daylight hours to fully appreciate the artwork.

It is about a 40 to 45-minute drive from downtown Kona, near Kealakekua Bay.

10. The Byodo-In Temple

The Byodo-In Temple in Oahu is a non-denominational Buddhist temple located in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park.

It was built in 1968 to honor the 100th anniversary of the arrival of Japanese immigrants in Hawaii.

The temple is a replica of an even older temple in Uji, Japan.

Its beautiful architecture includes a striking red facade, lush grounds, and tranquil koi ponds.

Recognized for its serenity and beauty, the Byodo-In Temple has been featured as one of the world’s most beautiful Buddhist temples by National Geographic.

Visitors often come to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and traditional Japanese architecture.

11. Queen Emma Summer Palace

The Queen Emma Summer Palace, also known as Hanaiakamalama, is located in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Built in 1848, this residence served as a summer retreat for Queen Emma and her family. It showcases a blend of Victorian and Hawaiian architectural styles.

Visitors can explore opulent furnishings, artifacts, and family portraits of Hawaiian royalty.

The palace is now a museum maintained by the Daughters of Hawaii, featuring a tranquil garden that adds to its charm. Learn more about this historic site at the Queen Emma Summer Palace.

12. Hawaiʻi State Capitol

The Hawaiʻi State Capitol is the seat of government for the state of Hawaii.

Located in downtown Honolulu, it serves as the main headquarters for the state’s executive and legislative branches.

Designed by Belt, Lemmon & Lo, and architect John Carl Warnecke, the building opened on March 15, 1969.

It features an open-air courtyard instead of an enclosed rotunda, allowing natural elements to flow through.

The unique design symbolizes various aspects of the Hawaiian Islands, including the surrounding reflecting pool representing the Pacific Ocean and the volcano-shaped legislative chambers.

More details can be found on the Hawaiʻi State Capitol’s distinct architecture.

13. Mauna Kea Observatories

Mauna Kea Observatories are a group of astronomical research facilities situated at the summit of Mauna Kea on the Big Island of Hawai’i.

The elevation provides exceptional conditions for stargazing due to its clear, dry atmosphere.

These observatories host some of the world’s largest and most advanced telescopes, offering valuable insights into the universe.

The location is ideal for both visible and infrared light observation, thanks to the high altitude and dry environment of the 13,000-foot summit.

For more information, you can visit Mauna Kea Observatories.

14. Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is located on the west coast of the Island of Hawaiʻi.

The park was a place of refuge for those who broke ancient Hawaiian laws, known as kapu.

The park covers 180 acres and includes royal grounds, temples, and a massive stone wall built in the 1500s.

Visitors can explore these historical sites and learn about Hawaiian culture. For more information, visit the official website.

15. ʻIolani Barracks

ʻIolani Barracks, also known as Hale Koa (House of Warriors), was built in 1870.

Designed by architect Theodore Heuck, it housed the Royal Guard of King Lot Kapuaiwa. The building features a coral block structure with an open courtyard.

Located next to ʻIolani Palace, the barracks housed about 80 guards until the monarchy’s overthrow in 1893.

It was later added to the National Register of Historic Places.

16. Kaʻahumanu Church

Kaʻahumanu Church is in Wailuku, Maui. It was founded in 1832 under the guidance of Reverend Jonathan S Green.

The church’s first building was a simple shed.

The current structure, completed in 1876, is the fourth on the site. It features a steep gabled roof and a prominent Gothic-style steeple, reminiscent of New England churches.

Hymns and invocations during services are conducted in the Hawaiian language, preserving the cultural heritage.

The church was added to the National Register of Historic Places on May 12, 1975. For more details, visit Kaʻahumanu Church.

17. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is famous for its incredible volcanic landscapes.

It features two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea.

The park offers visitors the chance to see a variety of geological phenomena.

This includes walking on old lava flows.

Historic petroglyphs can be found at the Pu’uloa site. Here, ancient Hawaiian carvings tell stories of the past.

18. Fort DeRussy

Fort DeRussy is part of the coastal defense system in Hawaii, established in 1909. The fort includes historic Battery Randolph, which housed two 14-inch disappearing guns.

Today, the U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii is located in Battery Randolph. The museum opened in 1976 and showcases Hawaii’s military history.

Fort DeRussy is situated in Waikiki, making it easily accessible to visitors staying in nearby hotels and resorts.

The area combines historical significance with modern-day convenience.

19. Haleakalā National Park Visitor Center

The Haleakalā National Park Visitor Center stands at Mile Marker 20.5, at an elevation of 9,740 feet. This stone building sits right on the edge of a cliff, providing breathtaking views.

Visitors can explore educational materials and learn about the park’s natural and cultural history.

Park staff are available from sunrise to 3 pm to help plan visits and answer questions.

The store operated by the Hawai’i Pacific Parks Association sells books, posters, and other items.

Proceeds from these sales benefit park programs and initiatives.

20. Punahou School

Punahou School stands out with its innovative design and sustainable features. The campus includes seven two-story classroom buildings and a 10,000-square-foot visual and performing arts center.

The school’s Kosasa Grades 4-5 Neighborhood embodies 21st-century educational philosophy.

Rainwater collection and LED lighting enhance sustainability.

Architectural Significance of Hawaiian Structures

Hawaiian architecture blends traditional influences with modern design. It emphasizes harmony with nature and cultural symbolism.

Historical Influence on Modern Designs

In Hawaiian architecture, modern designs often incorporate elements from historical styles.

The Hawaiʻi State Capitol, for example, features open spaces inspired by traditional Hawaiian structures.

This blending of old and new can be seen in many buildings across Hawaii.

During the 1970s and 80s, residential projects and resorts experienced significant growth, incorporating traditional elements into new constructions.

These periods of growth highlighted the adaptability and enduring influence of historical designs on contemporary architecture.

By integrating historical elements, buildings maintain a unique identity that honors Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage.

Integration of Natural Elements

Hawaiian architecture is known for its strong connection to nature.

Buildings often feature large windows and open layouts to take advantage of Hawaii’s beautiful landscapes.

The use of natural materials like wood and stone is common, reflecting the island’s natural beauty.

Additionally, many heiaus (sacred temples) were built in areas of natural beauty, further emphasizing the integration of architecture with nature.

This practice continues today, with modern buildings designed to blend seamlessly with their surroundings.

Rooflines that mimic the shapes of mountains and water features that echo natural streams are also popular.

Cultural Symbolism in Architecture

The architecture of Hawaii is deeply rooted in the island’s culture and spirituality.

Many buildings incorporate symbolic elements that reflect the beliefs and values of the Hawaiian people.

The design of heiaus, for instance, embodies spiritual significance and the community’s connection to the land.

Public buildings often feature motifs and artwork that celebrate Hawaiian mythology and history.

These elements are not merely decorative; they serve to remind residents and visitors of Hawaii’s cultural heritage.

Incorporating cultural symbolism into architectural design helps preserve Hawaii’s identity and enriches the experience of those who live in or visit these remarkable structures.

Sustainability in Hawaiian Architecture

Hawaiian architecture focuses on sustainability to preserve its unique environment. Techniques include energy-efficient designs, the use of renewable resources, and achieving green building certifications.

Energy-Efficient Building Techniques

Energy-efficient building techniques are crucial in Hawaii due to its tropical climate.

Architects design buildings that maximize natural ventilation and lighting to reduce electricity usage.

They use materials that provide good insulation to keep interiors cool.

For instance, tropical modernism emphasizes large windows and open layouts, cutting down on the need for artificial climate control.

Reflective roofs and shaded outdoor spaces also help in reducing cooling costs.

These methods collectively contribute to more efficient energy use and a smaller carbon footprint.

Use of Renewable Resources

Hawaiian architecture often incorporates renewable resources to minimize environmental impact.

Solar panels are commonly installed to harness the abundant sunlight, providing a sustainable energy source.

Buildings also use local materials like bamboo and reclaimed wood, which are both eco-friendly and culturally significant.

This reduces the need for imported resources and supports the local economy.

Water conservation techniques, including rainwater harvesting and greywater systems, are also integrated to make the most of natural resources.

Green Building Certifications

Achieving green building certifications is a priority for many Hawaiian architects.

Certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) ensure that buildings meet high sustainability standards.

Sustainable design practices are implemented to lower carbon emissions and increase energy efficiency.

This includes using eco-friendly construction materials and integrating renewable energy systems.

Green buildings also focus on preserving indoor environmental quality, which benefits both occupants and the planet.

These certifications help set benchmarks for sustainability and push the industry towards more responsible building practices.