House Floating Above a Lava Field in Hawaii | Hale Lana

Named "Hale Lana," which translates as "Floating Home," the house embraces its surroundings with its striking and integrated architecture. Situated against the spectacular backdrop of Hawaii's Big Island, this 1,598-square-meter home was conceived as a series of cantilevered-roof pavilions, forming a harmonious interconnection between spaces.

The house gently rises above the lava ground, as if floating over the expanse of red and black lava fields, creating a breathtaking scene. The name "Hale Lana" is fitting, as each pavilion appears to hover over the bed of lava, and the transparency between indoor and outdoor environments is a notable feature. Glass walls and open walkways allow residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the lush surrounding vegetation and the imposing monolithic rock walls that embrace the property.

Hawaiian inspiration is present in every detail, particularly in the corrugated metal roofs reminiscent of traditional island homes. These double-pitched cantilevered roofs create spacious covered lanais, perfectly designed to capture ocean breezes and allow air to flow seamlessly through the house. A true celebration of Hawaiian architecture, these roofs not only pay homage to the local aesthetic but also introduce a new level of engineering with their extended overhangs and precisely defined edges.

Each of the five pavilions is equipped with sliding glass doors that open onto covered lanais wrapping around each unit. Adjustable wood panels function as shutters, enabling control over ever-changing environmental conditions, offering protection from sun exposure and wind direction.

At the heart of the house, the largest pavilion houses a complete kitchen and the main living area. A covered lanai connects it to the other four pavilions: the master suite, guest suite, utility space, and cabana. Inside, wooden plank ceilings extend seamlessly from the underside of the roof, creating a sense of continuity between indoors and outdoors.

The cabana opens up to an expansive pool, an irresistible invitation to relax and enjoy the tropical climate. Wooden benches, outdoor dining tables, and sofas are arranged in the deck spaces between the interconnected units.

A notable aspect of this residence is its commitment to sustainability and environmental performance. The generous overhangs provide ample shade and cool lanais, ensuring that the spaces remain comfortable even on the warmest days.

Hale Lana is truly a masterpiece of architectural design, where each pavilion resonates with the beauty and serenity of the surrounding landscape. The intelligent use of natural materials, such as cedar wood and ipe, enriches the visual and tactile experience, creating a warm sensation in the interiors. The continuous connection between the pavilions, elevated walkways, along with meticulous attention to detail, creates an atmosphere where the spirit of Hawaii melds with modern comfort.

Project info:

Name: Hale Lana
Location: Kona, Hawaii, USA
Project Size: 17,211 SF
Year: 2018
Architecture: Olson Kundig
Design principal: Tom Kundig
Project manager: Todd Matthes
Project architect: Katherine Ranieri
Architectural staff: Gregory Nakata
Interior design: Debbie Kennedy
Interior design staff: Amanda Chenoweth, Kathy Hanway, Maresa Patterson and Crisanna Siegert
Photography: Nic Lehoux

0:00 - Lava Field
0:34 - Living Room
1:46 - The Cabana
2:53 - Sliding Wood Panels
4:03 - Master Suite
4:48 - Secondary/Service Entrance
5:24 - Lanais and Walkways Connect the Pavilions
6:03 - Guest Suites
6:24 - Floating on Lava
8:29 - Drawings