Putting the Finishing Touches on a Rebuild

This is part three of a three-part series.

With completion of interior installations and finishes, the Kaimuki rebuild covered in three Hawaii Renovation features over the past three months was ready for occupancy. The owners, a couple who had lived in the original old single-wall home, moved in last weekend.

The series began with demolition, concrete work and framing. Part two covered roofing, windows, doors, electrical, plumbing, drywall and siding.

Homeworks selections specialist Sarah Van De Vanter, the initial contact with the clients, worked closely with them on all phases of the project, from planning and budget to final interior and exterior selections. The objective was to maintain quality in all phases of construction and finishes while keeping in mind what the clients could afford.

“The owners wanted a simple, easily maintained home that could serve them at every phase of their lives,” Van De Vanter said. “We were essentially ‘designing for life,’ which takes into account aging in place in various ways. For example, we recessed the master shower to create a barrier-free entrance and incorporated a built-in bench and grab bars. In the kitchen, we designed an island with under-counter cabinets on one side and open space on the other to accommodate seating so it could double as a dining counter.

“The cabinets, which are maple, have a rich look but were moderately priced. Countertops are solid surface for easy maintenance. Flooring is a wood grain laminate throughout, which contributes to the seamless look of the main living area with its ‘great room’ open floor plan, enhanced by the vaulted ceilings.”

Energy conservation was a consideration. Van De Vanter noted that lighting fixtures accommodate incandescent and compact florescent bulbs, and roofing was compatible with installation of PV panels.

“Aging in Place” will be the topic of a free seminar Tuesday, April 30, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Homeworks Showroom, 2111 S. Beretania St. For reservations, call 955-2777. The topic will also be covered on the Build New Or ReDo Show Saturdays, 9 to 10 a.m., on KHVH Radio AM830.

HOMEWORKS CONSTRUCTION

contact // 955-2777
address // 2111 S. Beretania St.