The BIA Renaissance Building and Remodeling Awards, established in 1986, celebrates excellence in design and construction of new and remodeled projects in Hawaii. This year’s showcase was held May 2, and featured 38 entrants from Hawaii, Maui and Oahu.

The entries were judged on creativity, use of materials, environmental and sustainability, functionality, design principles, value, interior space, overall quality and workmanship.

The highlight of the awards ceremony was the recognition of the top four Overall Grand Awards and the Carl Reppun Award. This column will feature the winner of the Overall Grand Award in the Residential Remodel division — Hawaii Architecture, LLP and DH Squared Construction, LLC for “La Pietra Circle.”

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The design intent of this complete remodel of an existing 1970’s two-story residential townhouse was focused on developing flowing integrated spaces that would make it easy to entertain larger groups during special events, but would also offer a cozy space for more private settings for intimate engagements.

The most significant alteration was the addition of a mezzanine/loft and renovated structural glass staircase.

The staircase finishes served as a transition of floor materials from the natural travertine stone on the first floor to walnut wood floors on the upper levels. Cast-in-place concrete stair threads were custom colored to match the brown hues of the walnut flooring, and structural glass railings were selected to provide an open, unobstructed view throughout the space and to the outside. An overlooked unit in a dated housing community was transformed into a contemporary modern space. Materials that were suitable both indoors and throughout the outdoor patio areas incorporated a color palette that was sophisticated and unobtrusive.

Photo: This year’s winner in the Residential Remodel division, “La Pietra Circle.”

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