Building on tradition

When it’s time to rebuild a home that’s been in the family for decades, finding the right builder can be an emotional and challenging experience. One East Honolulu family selected Homeworks Construction because of the team’s design experience, flexibility and professionalism. With help from Homeworks, the family was pleased to have a home that honored the past, but also provided for future generations.

Flexibility
Finding a contractor that understands local culture and traditions is important.

“We have worked with hundreds of local families to renovate and rebuild homes on Oahu. We take time to understand the family’s needs and priorities,” says Marshall Hickox, president of Homeworks Construction. “For 30 years, we have been building for families that are legacy property owners. I have learned to never discount the emotion involved in dealing with a childhood home.”

Hickox recommends homeowners conduct extensive interviews and research before hiring a contractor.

The East Honolulu homeowner says, “We interviewed four design-build contractors before getting started and while Homeworks wasn’t the least expensive, they were the most flexible and creative.”

The owner’s family had lived in the multigenerational home since his parents purchased the property in 1973.

In 2016, the current owner’s father passed away and, two years later, the family decided to rebuild and plan for the future. Their vision was a comfortable plantation-style home that would stand the test of time. Homeworks’ designers and architect worked directly with the homeowner from concept to build, adapting the owner’s existing design concepts accordingly.

Experience, planning
Because the project began right before the COVID-19 pandemic, the company’s experience played a significant role in the project’s success. From supplier and transportation challenges to manpower shortages, Homeworks navigated challenges with skill and grace.

“We have been doing this for 30 years and relied on our network and team to plan flexibly and carefully. Our relationships and experience made it possible,” Hickox says.

“We thought permitting would be an issue, but thanks to Homeworks’ thoroughness, the permits were issued in an impressive 11 weeks,” the homeowner says.

While the family had a clear vision for the design — which included exposed rafter tails, board and batten walls, and plantation-style windows — Homeworks guided the family through the planning process to make sure it was both cohesive and functional.

One of the key features of the home is an accessory dwelling unit that provides more living space and flexibility for multigenerational living. Homeworks has extensive experience building both attached and detached ADUs, also known as “ohana” units. The homeowner hopes to pass the home to his children and grandchildren, carrying on the tradition.

“Our grandparents lived with us from the 1970s-1990s, and my parents lived here from the 1970s-2010s. We are in the 2020s and this is still a family home,” the homeowner says.

Future plans
If you are unsure how to plan your home renovation or new home build and need guidance, contact Homeworks Construction. Its design-build team is equipped to provide custom home solutions with professionalism and care. Whether your home is first or fourth generation, Homeworks can help.

HOMEWORKS CONSTRUCTION
Contact
808-955-2777
Address
2111 S. Beretania St., Honolulu
Email
mrh@homeworkshawaii.com
Web
homeworkshawaii.com