Design Around The World: Hawaii
Melissa Alvarado Sierra
May 26, 2009
Contributing Writer
This is the first ideabook of the Design Around The World series. I am excited about the design journey we'll embark on and hope all of you enjoy every bit as we discover different decorating styles from the world's most inspiring places.
Our first destination? The islands of eternal beauty: Hawaii. With an all-year-round balmy sunshine, brilliant sunsets and beautiful beaches, Hawaii has the natural power to inspire the dullest of imaginations. The spirit of the islands is relaxing and fresh, but most of all strong and empowering.
Let’s take a look at these beautiful spaces and find out what makes Hawaiian décor so extraordinary.
Our first destination? The islands of eternal beauty: Hawaii. With an all-year-round balmy sunshine, brilliant sunsets and beautiful beaches, Hawaii has the natural power to inspire the dullest of imaginations. The spirit of the islands is relaxing and fresh, but most of all strong and empowering.
Let’s take a look at these beautiful spaces and find out what makes Hawaiian décor so extraordinary.
This is the epitome of the island life. Jaw-dropping views, a spectacular infinity pool, and colorful outdoor furniture to match the spectacle.
This has the right touch of the exotic. Dark woods and rich colors are focus points here and bring the Hawaiian style to life.
Nothing makes a house more tropical than palm trees and a pool. Mix that with a striking ocean view and you have your little piece of paradise.
We've reviewed this bathroom before. Its tropical feel is evident because of the lush vegetation and creamy palette that imitates Hawaii's grace.
Rattan pieces are the quintessential elements in tropical décor, especially Hawaiian. Its natural feel merges the outdoors with the indoors.
A Hawaiian-inspired bathroom is simple to create. Here, dark woods, exotic palm and rustic vanity add up to portray a Hawaiian aesthetic.
This is a modern take on the tropical theme. I find it fascinating and exciting to blend modern elements such as the concrete bath with more traditional ones like the wooden vanity.
Related Stories
New This Week
4 New Kitchens With Wonderful Wood Cabinets
Pros share how they used various wood species, styles, stains and details to create warm and welcoming kitchens
Full Story
Bathroom Design
5 Secrets to a Smooth-Running Family Bathroom
Pros say these are the must-have features for creating an efficient shared bathroom
Full Story
Kitchen Makeovers
Kitchen of the Week: Beer, Shuffleboard and Pizza Bring the Fun
Entertaining features and a warm industrial style create a lively atmosphere in this revamped Craftsman bungalow space
Full Story
Trending Now
The 10 Most Popular Bedrooms So Far in 2024
By Becky Harris
Feather your nest in style with inspiration from Houzz readers’ most-saved bedroom photos
Full Story
Working With Pros
Which Pro Should You Hire for Your Project?
Find out whether you need a contractor, an architect, an interior designer or another professional for the job
Full Story
Bathroom Makeovers
Bathroom of the Week: Accessibility and a Relaxing Vibe
By Becky Harris
A design-build firm uses universal design principles when expanding a family bath
Full Story
Housekeeping
How to Clean Your Windows and Keep Them Streak-Free
Try these tips, tricks and tools to wash your windows so they’re crystal clear
Full Story
Entryways
The 10 Most Popular Entries and Mudrooms So Far in 2024
Get ideas for storage setups, color schemes and special details from the most-saved entry photos so far this year
Full Story
Kitchen Design
30 Bold and Beautiful Range Backsplashes
Get ideas for eye-catching tile and stone backsplashes inside stove alcoves and behind cooktops
Full Story
Porches
Porch of the Week: Catching a Breeze in Austin, Texas
By Becky Harris
The new screened-in space has a beautiful fireplace as a focal point and includes lounging and dining spaces
Full Story
Mahalo for featuring some of our projects! A common trend here in Hawaii is to embrace the stunning surroundings. We try to incorporate a lot of indoor-outdoor spaces, maximize views from as many rooms/areas as possible, and take advantage of trade winds and natural airflow. Designing homes in this beautiful place definitely has its perks :)