Developed by Howard Hughes in partnership with Discovery Land Company, residential duo ‘Ilima and Melia have made their debut on the front row on O’ahu’s South Shore
From a two-storey bungalow in Singapore to 1228 Madison Avenue in New York, Robert A.M. Stern Architects (RAMSA) is the reason for some of the world’s most iconic residences and much more. Founded by Stern, an American architect, author and formerly the Dean of Yale School of Architecture, the 56-year-old Manhattan firm has taken half-a-century of expertise to Hawaii for the first time.
Developed by Howard Hughes in partnership with Discovery Land Company, residential duo ‘Ilima and Melia have made their debut on the front row on O’ahu’s South Shore—a prized location with picture-perfect views of Diamond Head and the Pacific—set within Ward Village, a 24.28-hectare master-planned community with over 175 years of history. Built on the classical architectural style the firm is known for, RAMSA drew inspiration from Honolulu’s grand estate homes and rich local heritage, as well as the work of Bertram Goodhue, the late American architect celebrated for his work in Spanish Colonial Revival design.
The 33-storey ‘Ilima comprises 148 residences, Discovery Land Company’s signature concierge services, and a private owners club, while the 35-storey Melia is home to 221 residences and an expansive suite of lifestyle amenities. Both towers, connected with a native botanical garden pathway, will set new standards for island luxury with an elegant, courtyard-centred estate, seamlessly integrated with Hawaiian sensibility. Together with Champalimaud Design’s interior expertise, ‘Ilima and Melia Ward Village feature tiered masonry facades, unique ornamentation and masterful detailing, such as balconies, arcades and covered walkways.
“We’ve tried to go back to local traditions, and [we have] also [made] the buildings extremely modern. We’ve really dug in to try to capture something that says this could only be in Hawaii, could only be in Honolulu,” said Stern. “I love this idea of going back to go forward. We go backwards in terms of imagery, backwards in terms of mood, if you will, and forward in terms of keeping up with the technology.”
A home at ‘Ilima can be yours for a starting price of US$3.9 million, while one at Melia will begin at US$1.7 million. Sales are expected to launch soon. Featured photo by Howard Hughes
