October 19, 2011
Contributed by Thomas Yoshida
Kamehameha Schools has selected an architect and commenced conceptual design on the multi-level specialty retail center. To kick off its retail plans and offer a prelude of what is to come, Kamehameha presents Nonstop Kaka'ako, a free event this Saturday at the site.
"The event is really intended to demonstrate in a very tangible way Kamehameha's vision for Kaka'ako," said Paul Kay, Kamehameha Schools' director of development. "We want people who attend Nonstop Kaka'ako to see the neighborhood's potential and also experience a taste of the future, like the temporary parklet we're installing on Auahi Street – a seating and dining area set in three parallel parking stalls."
Kamehameha expects to break ground on the retail center by January 2013.
In addition to the retail center, Kamehameha is also planning a new, 225-stall parking garage, street-level improvements, central plaza and information center.
The specialty retail center – the district's core shopping area – is expected to provide an engaging and eclectic mix of entertainment, restaurants and retail. 40% of the gross leaseabale area is slated for retail, 40% for restaurants, 10% for artisans and 10% for office.
Some possibilities for tenancy include unique apparel retailers, open air restaurants and pubs, incubator concepts for emerging chefs, artisan spaces and offices for creative types like graphic designers, architects and technology innovators.
Street-level improvements like landscaping, paved walkways and street furniture will further enhance the customer experience and provide opportunities to explore and gather.
The retail center will surround approximately 10,000 square feet of open space consisting of an entry court on Auahi Street and a central plaza. This space will be accessed through a woonerf – a wide, mid-block crossing designed for pedestrians while also accommodating vehicular traffic.
"The specialty retail concept is already evident on the Auahi block," said Kay. "We have tenants right now, like C4 Waterman, Hank's Haute Dogs, Chai Studio and others, who are business innovators and who are helping to differentiate Kaka'ako as a retail destination. Our ongoing partnership with Street Grindz and their popular Eat the Street events on the last Friday of every month are further proof that the community is eager for something new and different."
The retail center is part of the nine-block Kaiaulu 'o Kaka'ako master plan that was approved by the Hawaii Community Development Authority in September 2009.
Kamehameha envisions a vibrant, 21st century urban neighborhood that includes condos, townhomes and lofts, as well as co-working spaces, public contemporary art and culture and neighborhood retail.
About Kamehameha Schools Kaka'ako Kamehameha Schools is developing 29 acres in Kaka'ako ma uka, bordered by Cooke, South, Halekauwila streets and Ala Moana Boulevard. The urban neighborhood will include residential apartments, condos and townhouses complemented by neighborhood-serving retailers. Kamehameha is currently renovating commercial space at 660 Ala Moana Boulevard. KS also expects to begin construction at 680 Ala Moana Boulevard in late October to convert what is currently office space into 54 residential rental apartments. Kamehameha Schools is working with community collaborators like Nonstop Honolulu, Pow Wow Hawaii and Eat the Street, as well as existing tenants like Chai Studio and Hank's Haute Dogs to instill art, culture and vibrancy into the new community.
Media Contact: Erin Kinney, 534-8507
Kamehameha Schools’ policy is to give preference to applicants of Hawaiian ancestry to the extent permitted by law.
