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Experienced design-build professionals meet the challenges of constructing a multigenerational house in Kalihi When Homeworks Construction project coordinator Sarah Van De Vanter first met with her clients to plan their new multigenerational home, they presented her with a photo from a magazine they had been saving for eight years. Homeworks had designed and built their “inspiration house,” which incorporated features the family knew they would want in their own home when they were ready to build.

“The family … a middle age couple and older parents … had very specific wants and needs, some requiring very creative solutions on our part,” Van De Vanter said. “They owned homes on two lots, back to back, with access on two different streets. The new home would occupy the site of a 60 year old home on a 5,000 square foot lot, which we demolished.

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“The outdoor covered lanai was to be placed at the back of the new home facing the gardens with the garage and main entryway in the front. The main living area opens to the lanai and gardens, so even for a small home on a small lot in an urban neighborhood, there’s a sense of indoor-outdoor ambiance. Since parking is scarce in this Kalihi neighborhood, we created as much on-premises parking as possible. At the same time, we had to maximize interior space and design for two generations, one utilizing a wheelchair.”

Homeworks was able to incorporate two master suites in the approximately 1,700 square foot space, one with a wheelchair accessible shower and grab bars. Alcoves for large items such as a TV, had to be created to facilitate easy access throughout the home. The open floor plan includes a main living/dining/kitchen area with space to accommodate a large, movable dining table.

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“Although we needed to stay within a tight budget, we managed to provide a number of upscale finishes such as quality, solid hardwood cabinets. A special request from the patriarch of the family was a window in his master suite overlooking the garden and a beautiful, fruit bearing avocado tree he had planted years ago.”

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Van De Vanter noted that she and the entire design build team will be available in the Homeworks Construction booth at the BIA Home Building & Remodeling Show at Blaisdell Center Jan. 25, 26, and 27 to review prospective projects with attendees and discuss their “wish lists” both for renovations and new custom homes.

Homeworks project coordinator Kim Green will conduct a free seminar on “Home Modification for Multigenerational Living, Aging in Place and Disabled Family Members” Tuesday, Feb. 5, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Homeworks Construction Showroom located at 2111 S. Beretania St., 2nd floor. One on one consultations with “Thrive for Life” owners and occupational therapists Catia Garell and Damian Sempio will be a special feature.

For reservations and additional information, call 955-2777.

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

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