Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki and Golf Club is undergoing a $55.4 million redevelopment and repositioning. Hawaii-based G70 (formerly Group 70 International) is the project's lead architect. Los Angeles-based Creative Resource Associates Design will focus on interior design.
The redesigned lobby, including a handcrafted ceiling installation by local artist Kaili Chun, will have areas to socialize, rest, shop and dine. The new interior design will incorporate the hotel's sense of place by complementing the panoramic ocean views available from every guestroom.
Once completed in spring 2017, the property will also have a new name: Prince Waikiki. The eight-month refurbishment marks the hotel's first major remodel since its opening on April 20, 1990.
Located at the gateway to Waikiki overlooking the Ala Wai Yacht Harbor, the property will transform 563 oceanfront guestrooms and suites, add all-new dining options, modernize the lobby, add a new infinity pool, and enhance the meeting space.
Natural elements will be highlighted in the design to give the property a Hawaiian sense of place, including the muliwai or estuary; the Piinaio, a convergence of three fresh water streams from the mountains; the naio flower, an indigenous plant; the hinana, a juvenile fish; and limu eleele, a seaweed.
Also as the hotel repositions itself as a sanctuary in Waikiki, there will be artful touches added throughout the property. These will include a newly commissioned art sculpture designed by local artist Kaili Chun.
Katsumidori Sushi Tokyo will open its first overseas location on the hotel's lobby level in December.
Watabe Wedding Corporation will develop its first high-rise wedding chapel on the 33rd floor of Prince Waikiki, complete with panoramic vistas of Ala Wai Harbor, the Pacific Ocean and Oahu's south shore. The wedding chapel will open in spring 2017.
Meanwhile, Honolulu Coffee will be located in the hotel's new lobby.