Hawaii Home + Remodeling July 2021

BETTER BUILDERS OF 2021 H AWA I I H O M E + R E M O D E L I N G

INDOOR- OUTDOOR LIVING

F R E E | JU LY 2 02 1

VOLUME X XII, ISSUE 7 | FREE

FEEL THE BREEZE

Pocket sliding doors let the outside in

SOAK IT UP 7

New pool and spa make a splash

Refined Elegance A builder’s masterpiece exudes luxury and craftsmanship

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You + This Space = Perfect

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CONTENTS J U LY 2 0 2 1

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10

22

28

36

Invite calm into your dwelling with earthy and neutral tones.

A brand-new pool and spa pack a load of fun for this family.

An oceanfront property’s landscaping is completely refreshed.

Profi les of some of the best home professionals on Oahu.

Summertime Hues

Fun in the Sun

Sitting Pretty

Better Builders

on the cover: Build Oahu LLC crafts a masterpiece of a house with impressive features inside and out. Photo by Franzen Photography

PHOTOS: FRANZEN PHOTOGRAPHY; BENJAMIN MOORE, COURTESY OF CITY MILL; AARON K. YOSHINO; ARVYDAS PAULIUKAS, COURTESY OF AMANO CONSTRUCTION

IN EVERY ISSUE: 6 EDITOR’S NOTES | 9 WELCOME | 58 RADAR

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EDITOR’S NOTES

I’m hoping for a cool summer, not a cruel summer.

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Spa on page 22, plus a beautiful beachfront property on page 28 that has elevated landscaping done

by Steve’s Gardening Service.

Take a look at our cover story on a breathtaking home in Aina Haina, starting on page 14. Built

by Build Oahu LLC, this home is truly a masterpiece, with durable products, quality materials and stunning amenities that showcase all that the company can do.

If you’re thinking of putting your dream home together, you’ll want to trust in a reliable team.

In this issue, we partnered with the Better Business Bureau Great West + Pacific to create our Better Builders section, which spotlights some of the best builders on Oahu. See these top-rated professionals and what sets them apart on page 36.

A good relationship between builder and homeowner is key to a successful remodel or new build. I encourage you to take the time to get to know these builders and what they have to offer.

Aloha,

Stephanie Nguyen, EDITOR

stephanien@hawaiihomemag.com

PHOTO: AARON K. YOSHINO

A

s i write this in late may, the weather is beginning to warm up. Soon, the temperatures will climb and summer will be in full swing. And as the days heat up, so will I as a result of my AC system being broken for the last few months.

I can already feel the impact of having a poorly ventilated space.

After chasing get-cool-quick schemes for immediate relief, I now know how important it is to address the bigger issue: I need to take a closer look at my old system, specifically the outdoor unit.

If you’re in the same predicament as me — or want to avoid it — now may be a good time to check in on your home’s cooling and ventilation systems. On page 54, we share some maintenance tips that you should take to heart to avoid the heat. Experts such as Carrier Hawaii and Island Cooling offer straightforward solutions for cleaning up your interior and exterior AC systems and maintaining a whole-house fan.

While I am on a mission to restore coolness in my home, I am also daydreaming about the refreshing features we have in this issue of the magazine.

There’s a Makakilo home that makes a splash with its stellar pool renovation by Pacific Pool &

Get access FIRST to the latest issue of Hawaii Home + Remodeling Subscribe to Hawaii Home + Remodeling’s digital subscription and have access to the latest issue and to almost 100 archived issues. As a subscriber, you will have access to the latest content, contests and more before the print issue even arrives in stores.

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WELCOME

PHOTO: AARON K. YOSHINO

J U LY 2 0 2 1

Take it Easy this oceanfront property on oahu’s north shore is a calming oasis where its owners can relax and enjoy the summertime. The living’s easy here, with views of the beach from the lanai as well as casual seating areas on the lawn. See more of this outdoor retreat on page 28.

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PA I N T

Reset with Earthy Tones Summertime paint upgrades to help you relax and enjoy your home.

BY CAITLIN BASILIO

e’ve spent a lot of time at home in the last year staring at the same four walls, and a lot of us are looking for a change. If you’re not up to something as drastic as a whole-home renovation, a smaller project, like changing the color of those walls, is a good option and could go a long way toward creating a more peaceful atmosphere inside the home.

And this year, the hottest paint colors are cool and neutral. Earthy tones add tranquility to any room and create a more soothing and comforting atmosphere within your home, shares Aaron Kouchi of City Mill. “It’s someplace we can kick off our shoes and relax, away from all the hustle and bustle of the outside world.”

Whether you’re adding an accent wall to a particular room or updating a piece of furniture with a fresh coat of paint, homeowners are looking to cool off and settle down after the chaotic year that was 2020. Which brings us to Aegean Teal (2136-40) — Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year.

“This nice blueish green and gray definitely fits into the neutral earthy tone that would go well in your bedroom or study,” shares Kouchi.

“I would accent this color with a creamy off-white or another earthy tone to create a relaxing space in your home.”

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Aegean Teal (2136-40)

Chestertown Buff (HC-9)

PA I N T

TO THE COTTAGECORE Turn your guest bedroom into a cottage retreat. Benjamin Moore’s Cottage Color Palette includes a joyful mix of airy pastels and homey earth tones for a comfy, countryside-inspired setting.

Super White (OC-152)

Marilyn’s Dress (2125-60)

Majestic Mauve (2115-60)

Muslin (OC-12)

Additionally, consider adding a pattern to your latest accent wall. “I think a harlequin or diamond pattern using earthy tones would work well in a child’s room or nursery,” says Kouchi.

Color washing is another way to add texture and depth to your walls. “It is when you add an additive or glaze to your paint,” explains Kouchi. “You start with a base coat paint color, then choose another color in the same shade or similarly close and add the additive to the second paint.

Using a brush, roller or sponge, you apply a second coat and create different types of textures on your walls based on the applicator being used.”

Misted Green (2138-50)

French Violet (1427)

hawaiihomemag.com • JULY 2021 • 11

PHOTOS: BENJAMIN MOORE, COURTESY OF CITY MILL; BENJAMIN MOORE

Coastal Path (AF-380)

ROCK GARDEN

Stay Grounded in Your Rock Garden It brings a natural Zen-like feel to your home.

BY CAITLIN BASILIO PHOTOS BY AARON K. YOSHINO

etting the most out of your outdoor space is about stepping outside, inhaling the fresh air and following your bliss. Adding a rock garden to your front or back yard can transform the look of your home and bring some tranquility to the overall atmosphere.

A rock garden is a low-maintenance way to enhance your outdoors and pull you into the surrounding nature for a moment of rest. The peaceful retreats are planned around natural rock formations or rocks that are artificially arranged.

Each element adds a Zen-like feel — whether it’s steppingstones for a walking path; gravel that comes

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in a variety of colors; or plants, river rocks and ornaments that adorn your yard. Consider ornaments such as pagodas, Buddha statues or fountains, or adding low-maintenance plants like dragon’s blood stonecrop (Sedum spurium), hens and chicks plants (Sempervivum tectorum) or other types of succulents and blue fescue grass, an ornamental grass.

You can start your own rock garden by gathering supplies from Kiso Store and Koolau Farmers. Kiso Store, located in Waipahu, carries rocks, gravel and outdoor ornaments while Koolau Farmers provides numerous garden options at its three locations. There, you’ll find everything you need for a Zen-themed space.

ROCK GARDEN

ROCK ON Rock garden designs can take many forms. Find all the adornments you need at Kiso Store.

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BUILT WITH PURPOSE This Aina Haina home is a dazzling display of everything Build Oahu LLC is capable of.

STORY BY LENNIE OMALZA PHOTOS BY FRANZEN PHOTOGRAPHY FEATURING BUILD OAHU LLC

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hen james and jae hee kijek first saw an older aina haina home with several issues, all they could see was its potential as their future dream home.

“It’s great because it’s not far from the shopping center, it has excellent views, and we don’t have to drive up any ridges to get to it,” says James Kijek, who is the owner of Build Oahu LLC. “And from my perspective, it was a dual opportunity. We approached it as a way to showcase and stage what my company can do. Instead of putting a client’s money in play, I put my own money toward it to prove what we’re capable of and demonstrate the level of energy that we bring to every project.”

Boasting unobstructed ocean views framed by craft-oiled beams and silvered ipe lanai, the house is a masterpiece. Originally designed as a three-bedroom home with two full baths and two half-baths, the Kijeks currently use it as a two bedroom home, with the third room converted into a retail-inspired master closet.

There is also a large office, plus a media room on the main floor; an open-concept kitchen and dining area with huge northeast-facing windows that take up the second floor, as well as a charmingly concealed hot tub near the master suite.

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below: Stepping out on the ipe deck, which is resistant to rot and decay, the homeowners can take in panoramic views. Materials for the home were carefully chosen to ensure they’re durable and functional, inside and out. right: The open-concept kitchen and dining area have huge northeastfacing windows to let in natural light and airflow. below right: While the exterior of the home is very masculine, the interior has many feminine touches — including a floral mosaic backsplash in the kitchen — to balance it out.

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“All of the materials of a craftsman’s job are exposed as you walk through the house.”

— BART ABBOTT, BUILD OAHU LLC

“All of the materials of a craftsman’s job are exposed as you walk through the house,” says Bart Abbott, operations coordinator for Build Oahu LLC. Polished concrete floors and tastefully exposed CMU walls are a nod to masons and the woodwork, including the ceiling and exposed wood beams, speak to the carpentry crafts. There’s also high-end cabinetry and waterfall countertops, as well as carefully selected stone and [concrete] flatwork. “And then when you leave,” Abbott adds, “the landscaping fea-

18 • JULY 2021 • hawaiihomemag.com

tures beautiful volcanic rock work as well. All the different trades are highlighted.”

Adds Kijek: “All the rock that you see on the property came from the property. When we did all that excavation, there were truckloads with tons of rocks in them. The big ones that we could barely move stayed on-site and did this dance as needed; we’d kind of maneuver them around and out of our way.” The smaller rocks were taken to Waimanalo, washed, and brought back; each one now

far left: One of the three bedrooms was converted into a retail-inspired master closet. left: This bathroom balances warm and cool tones with its white walls and countertop, wood cabinets and polished concrete floors. below: Major highlights throughout the home are the ceiling and exposed wood beams, which speak to carpentry crafts. Sliding barn doors in the main bedroom reveal an en suite bath. There’s also a concealed hot tub nearby.

adds to the unique outdoor space of the property.

Kijek says that though the house — particularly the exterior — was designed to be bold and masculine, he and his team toned it down with feminine touches throughout the interior.

“The backsplash is made up of threequarter-inch mosaics with little flowers on them,” he says. “A very similar floral pattern is used in the bathrooms as well. Because of the use of all this big heavy timber and steel, we balanced it out.”

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As stunning as the home is, it’s more than just a beautiful structure: Materials were carefully selected to ensure the house is highly functional and as low maintenance as possible. “It’s kind of popular and a whole lot cheaper and easier to have a brush finish,” Kijek says, referring to the railings. “But we decided to go with a mirror finish on all the stainless steel because it doesn’t have little grooves to hold salt and collect dirt, dust and grime.” The Kijeks also opted for concrete floors — which are both alluring and easy to clean — as well as ipe decks, which are naturally resistant to rot and decay.

“One of the things that has come across in previous conversations with some of my general contractor friends 20 • JULY 2021 • hawaiihomemag.com

was that we get to build all of these awesome spaces for other people, but we can’t afford them or don’t get to experience them for ourselves,” Kijek recalls. “I remember that idea … and me thinking that I’m going to make sure that one day, I’m going to make that happen for myself.”

Abbott adds that he would love to build or renovate other Hawaii homes like the Kijeks’. “James rolled the dice on his own company to really demonstrate what we can do as a team,” he says.

“It was definitely a dream,” Kijek attests. “I’m extremely happy with it. We love the house. It’s a dream house and it’s been a pleasure being able to build it and live in it and appreciate it.”

above: This large office on the main floor of the home is perfect for multiple people to use. top right: A powder room can be found next to the office. right: There’s a media room in the home that makes for an ideal place for a movie or karaoke night.

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Pocketful of Sunshine A Makakilo family soaks up panoramic views from its new pool and spa, just in time for summer.

STORY BY CAITLIN BASILIO

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PHOTOS BY AARON K. YOSHINO

FEATURING PACIFIC POOL & SPA

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ocated in makakilo, this refreshing oasis features a brand-new pool, spa and outdoor shower complete with a priceless view of the ocean. The Simon family’s vision for the backyard was brought to life by Pacific Pool & Spa. Inspired by their past Disney vacations, homeowners Dayna and Nick Simon wanted their pool to be a place for their family to lounge and spend time together.

“We saw the size of this backyard and felt we could build our dream swimming pool,” says Dayna. “We asked Pacific Pool & Spa to inspect this property before we submitted a bid to purchase.”

Construction on the Simons’ pool started right away. “The intention was to compliment the scenery,” says Clifton Crawford of Pacific Pool & Spa. “We wanted to make the pool the same color as the ocean out in the view.”

Crawford and his team put a lot of thought and creativity into ensuring the pool blended in with its surroundings.

The waterline around the pool includes tile from Fujiwa Tiles and a French Gray plaster, which is an exposed aggregate plaster material that’s twice as durable as regular plaster, shares Crawford. “Picking that gray color to compliment the ocean and then you have the reflective qualities of the sky,” he says, “that’s what gives it the blue-gray color.”

right: Included on the Bali ledge is a bubbler where frothy water bubbles up from 6 inches to 4 feet high. The feature has lights that can be programmed to red, white and blue, and makes for an affordable water-in-transit addition.

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above: Since the yard is sloped down, the spa is about 2 feet above the ground making it level with the rest of the pool and easy to get into and out of.

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The pool is 15 feet by 30 feet, with a depth of 3 ½ feet to 6 feet. In the shallow end of the pool, Crawford and his team installed a Bali ledge, which highlights a shallow entry. “It’s a 1-foot step down that’s probably got 6 or 9 inches of water off of it and then we put the ledge lounger chairs so that the ladies can lay down without getting their hair wet and cool off a little bit,” he explains. And “the ladies” aren’t the only ones who like the feature, Crawford says: “It’s great for dogs and excellent for grandkids too.”

Then there’s the spa, which is easy to get into and out of because of its level height. Inside are 10-12 jets, all at various heights. “They’re not just in one spot

hitting everybody in the same place,” says Crawford. “You can get it on the lower back and in between the shoulder blades.”

Before or after jumping into the water, the family can rinse off at the outdoor shower. There’s a 3-inch by 6-inch concrete masonry unit at the base and a hollow tile wall. The Simons hand-picked the showerhead and valve, and Crawford waterproofed and tiled the walls.

Now that the pool is complete, the Simons have been spending more time outdoors. “We spoke with Clifton on what we can do to make the view and our oasis a reality, and he helped us visualize everything we see today,” says Dayna. “The view during sunset is our most favorite time.”

“We saw the size of this backyard and felt we could build our dream swimming pool.”

— DAYNA SIMON, HOMEOWNER

right: The outdoor shower was completed with features personally chosen by the homeowners.

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Sitting Pretty An oceanfront property is refreshed with a landscaping makeover.

STORY BY STEPHANIE NGUYEN PHOTOS BY AARON K. YOSHINO FEATURING STEVE’S GARDENING SERVICE

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his awe-inspiring home along sunset beach on Oahu’s North Shore is a surfer’s dream house and a wholesome place for the homeowners and their children to enjoy inside and out.

The oceanfront property wasn’t always this picture perfect. The overgrown vegetation, loose gravel and massive boulders of the original landscape weren’t suitable to the current homeowners’ lifestyle. They needed a place that would be ideal for their active family and able to withstand the coastal climate.

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To remedy this, Steve Dewald of Steve’s Gardening Service was tasked with bringing the landscape design by Steve Mechler to life — allowing the family to fully enjoy their outdoor spaces.

“It was just loose river-rock pebbles,” shares Dewald of what the space was like.

“It was like walking on marbles. It was dangerous and slippery.”

At the front of the home, concrete was put in to create a courtyard, which the homeowners had decided on to make it easier for the kids and to cut down on maintenance. Drainage for the home included drain chains — as part of the original house design — and Dewald and his team installed

below: Navigating from the side of the house to the backyard is easier with the addition of LED Beachside Lighting and existing tiki torches. Steve’s Gardening Service implemented puka lava pavers on the lawn to help keep the mud down and to prevent falls.

left: On either side of the house, low-maintenance plants that can handle the coastal climate hug the perimeter, including tall areca palm trees for added privacy. below: Right outside the kitchen are cedar planter boxes with fresh herbs and lettuce that the homeowners planted.

a new drainage system with multiple flow wells that allow water to percolate back into the ground.

Plant selection included low-maintenance and salt-tolerant options, such as colorful heliconia, song of India, and a variety of monstera. On both sides of the house, tall areca palm trees provide shade and a natural privacy screen from the neighboring home. LED lights from Beachside Lighting were installed along the concrete pathway to help guide family and friends to the main attraction: the expanded backyard.

Once filled with massive boulders and overgrown vegetation, the backyard was remade by Steve’s Gardening Service into a large clean lawn with space to relax and play. Many of the boulders were repurposed into the new design. Now, it all looks intentional, mentions Dewald, with some boulders used as seating and one becoming a natural rock fire pit.

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above: The lawn was expanded and features El Toro Zoysia grass for ease of maintenance. Now, the homeowners’ ocean view can be taken in from all areas of the yard. right: Puka lava pavers line a path to the beach, which is mere steps away from their backyard.

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left: This little community space serves as a seating area with lawn chairs and repurposed boulders to sit on. It’s centered around a natural rock fire pit made from one of the boulders. below: The family can rinse off in this outdoor shower after a dip in the ocean.

The shower hugs a coconut tree and blends into the surroundings.

Puka lava pavers were used in the back corners of the yard to keep mud down, adds Dewald, and some line a path to the beach. An outdoor shower attaches to a coconut tree, making it easy to rinse off after a day of surfing and swimming.

For Dewald and his team, the biggest reward was working one-on-one with the owners and tweaking plans all along the way to help personalize the project.

“It’s a clean simple layout where they can come out and enjoy the beach,” says Dewald, adding that nothing can compete with the picture-perfect view from the lanai.

The family can now embrace all that the home has to offer. They can run and play along the wide-open lawn, head out to the beach in seconds or relax and lounge about with multiple seating areas and a hammock strung up between two trees. In the evenings, family and friends can gather around the natural fire pit to talk story, look up at the stars and enjoy the cool ocean breeze.

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A haven for one. A gathering place for many.

A low-rate HELOC. It’s all connected.

Bring your dreams and finances together with our affordable HELOC. Whether you’re building a new lanai, paying for tuition, or covering other expenses, our low rates connect you to what matters most.

Apply at fhb.com, any branch or call 808-643-LOAN.

It all starts with yes.

FINANCE

Summer Upgrades for Your Home Whether you enjoy the outdoors or would rather stay in, give your home one or all of these updates.

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MADE FOR MORE Enjoy the flow of your home by incorporating a smooth transition from the inside to the outside. Do this by maximizing your indooroutdoor living spaces and upgrading your doors. Imagine finishing your workday and walking out to your outdoor oasis. Since spending time outdoors is a part of life in Hawaii, consider a new door that will enhance the natural light, ventilation

and visibility of your home’s surroundings. French, single-hinged, bi-fold and pivot doors are some of the different types available.

BE ECO-FRIENDLY Caring for the environment has become a way of life for many.

Green home features such as energy-efficient windows and doors are worth the investment. Using sustainable materials and upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, windows and doors are a couple of ways to incorporate green building practices into your home.

COOL OFF If you’d rather stay inside, make sure to stay cool with a central or split air conditioning unit, which can be conveniently installed in various

places within a home. Two budgetfriendly alternatives to consider: updated ceiling fans or indoor wholehouse fans, which are designed to operate relatively maintenance free.

GET STARTED Consider First Hawaiian Bank’s home equity line of credit as a great resource for your home improvement projects.

A HELOC allows you to borrow against the available equity in your home while you invest in upgrades.

Reach out to your local First Hawaiian Bank representative to learn how you can save on your next project.

For more information, visit any First Hawaiian Bank branch or go to fhb.com.

hawaiihomemag.com • JULY 2021 • 35

PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

ime flies when you’re having fun, and while Hawaii can get hot in the summer, it is also the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors. Now is the time to give your home some cool updates that beat the heat and never go out of style.

BETTER

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BUILDERS 2021

In partnership with the Better Business Bureau Great West + Pacific No matter the size or scope of your home project, whether it’s a renovation or new build — you’ll need a trusted builder or contractor for the job. Finding the right fit, however, can be a stressful process. That’s why Hawaii Home + Remodeling has partnered with the Better Business Bureau Great West + Pacific to create the Better Builders program, which aims to help homeowners find the right fit for their home.

36 • JULY 2021 • hawaiihomemag.com

BETTER BUILDERS

2021

“Having your home be a place of rest, relaxation and time with the family is priceless,” shares Roseann Freitas, Hawaii marketplace manager for the Better Business Bureau Great West + Pacific. “At BBB, collaborating with Hawaii Home + Remodeling magazine to highlight the best building companies who embody integrity and higher standards is valuable to our trusted businesses and consumers.”

Better Builders showcases profiles of top building professionals that have earned A+ ratings on the BBB website. In this section, you’ll learn about the companies’ values, strengths, expertise, specialties and achievements. Some of these businesses are even accredited, and that’s noted on each profile.

“An A or higher rating represents the BBB’s opinion of how the business is likely to interact with its customers. The rating is based on information BBB obtains including complaint, response, transparency, appropriate licensing, honest advertising and honor promises,” shares Freitas. “Accredited companies have exceeded the standards and support the mission of trust in the marketplace. Businesses want to let their customers know they are trustworthy.”

For more than a century, the BBB has made it its mission to help businesses and consumers.

“The BBB vision is an ethical marketplace where buyers and sellers trust each other. We do this by setting standards for trust. We educate businesses on best practices and how to run a company that exceeds standards.

We also educate consumers on how to shop smartly and what they should look for in a business,” shares Freitas.

The organization offers an extra level of research and can assist in solving disputes, as well as providing listings of pre-vetted businesses, tips on how to shop smartly, and education on fraud.

“Finding the right builder allows the consumer to spend their money on quality work,” shares Freitas. “Trusting someone with one of your most considerable assets can be scary, and left in the wrong hands, can cost you more in time, money and frustration.

“Start with trust and begin your research at bbb.org.”

Read on to see profiles of these Better Builders and what they have to offer.

The Better Business Bureau’s Recommendations on Finding a ‘Better Builder’  Vet the contractor. Search bbb.org and the state’s Professional and Vocational Licensing Division.  Ask for references and read reviews and complaints.  Get everything in writing.

The contract should include contact information, start and completion timeline, detailed description of the actual work to be performed, projected material costs, payment arrangements, warranty details, and information on subcontractors.  Decide who is working on the permit — and do not allow work to start without it.  Ask for a lien waiver when completed to verify all suppliers and subcontractors have been paid.  Ask about warranty and potential future service issues.

For more ways to protect your home, see the Better Business Bureau contractor checklist.

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BETTER BUILDERS

2021

WAVE BUILDERS Ride the wave to a successful home project — big or small — with Wave Builders. This local company is founded on honesty and integrity and values every relationship and connection it makes with clients. From building residential homes and renovations to commercial projects and government work — Wave Builders is a well-rounded business that continues to rise.

“Our company has grown to keep up with the demands of clients wanting quality service,” says Valerie Young of Wave Builders, sharing that the company has doubled its workforce, joined the contractors union and has a new shop since last year.

Wave Builders prides itself on being a trustworthy and reliable team that aims to help customers beautify their homes.

Favorite product right now: LG Hausys’ HI-MACS® Solid Surface — it offers a wide array of colors and designs for countertops and shower pans and walls

5 years in business

WES CHUN

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PHOTOS: COURTESY OF WAVE BUILDERS

Family-owned company

BETTER BUILDERS

2021

“Thank you, Wave Builders, for the awesome work. We had a total head-to-toe renovation done to our bathroom to change it from a tub to a walk-in shower, replaced the sink and toilet and added grab bars around the shower to make it a safe place for my mom and much more. I truly appreciate Darren’s attention to detail, his responsiveness, and he was always so courteous even though I knew he had many tasks to juggle.

All of Wave Builders’ workers and subcontractors (tile, plumbing and electrical) that came into our home were neat and courteous as well. So professional and they all did their job well. They truly treated this renovation like it was their own. I appreciate that they cleaned up at the end of the day too! Thank you for making my mom feel like a queen on her own throne. I will definitely call upon Wave Builders for our next renovation project. Happy and satisfied homeowner.”

— SHERRY M., HOMEOWNER

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BETTER BUILDERS

2021

GRAHAM BUILDERS 2 CERTIFIED AGING-IN-PLACE SPECIALISTS 2 CERTIFIED GREEN BUILDERS

“I wanted to believe the end product would be as good as I expected. But now that my home is complete, it’s like, dang! I didn’t know it would come out this good!”

— CARLY IBARA, HOMEOWNER

Provided custom design and construction services for nearly 800 Oahu homes

Full-service design-build general contractor

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS: EVAN FUJIMOTO

Uses Revit 2021 to create lifelike illustrations and quality renderings of homes

ME + REM

BETTER BUILDERS 2020

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Holds a general contractor license as well as a carpentry specialty certification

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PHOTOS: HAWKINS BIGGINS PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY OF GRAHAM BUILDERS; GRAHAM BUILDERS

For 31 years, Graham Builders has been designing and building custom homes for Oahu families. When choosing Graham Builders, homeowners enjoy these unique services: a nonbinding design agreement, which allows you to get familiar with the company before signing a construction contract; your own architectural designer and design coordinator — vital for those who want a custom home to reflect their taste, lifestyle and budget; assistance in finish selection; and a final construction cost based on hard bids from suppliers and specialty contractors on the construction contract.

This past year, the cost of materials and shortage of appliances have impacted the building industry. Before starting your home project, Graham Builders recommends that homeowners get an overview of Honolulu residential construction. “An educated homeowner will make wiser decisions,” shares Bonnie Oda of Graham Builders. Homeowners should be aware of how the project will impact their lives during design and construction; budget basics and builder qualifications; what’s needed before signing a construction contract; and a general understanding of construction bonds in order to discuss concerns during meetings as one united voice.

“This is why Graham Builders focuses its energy on the company’s ‘Building Your Home for Life Seminar,’ a twohour class that covers the essentials every homeowner should know before embarking on a project,” says Oda. “The company is proud to report that nearly 7,500 residents have taken this free educational seminar since it began in 1996.”

BETTER BUILDERS

2021

“Establishing a new standard of excellence to build your dreams into reality” Design-Build Firm

ALL THINGS NEW

RICHIE A. BREAUX & TIFFANY PESTANA-BREAUX

Favorite product right now: LVP Flooring for its luxurious feel, durability and cost-effectiveness

Specializes in beachfront, waterfront and coastal construction

Online budget calculator helps determine budget per scope of work using square footage and defining general space

“If you listened in on our meetings and looked at our team photos, you would never imagine that we built a 7,000-plus-square-foot home within 12 months during a pandemic. While there were certainly tight deadlines, intense moments and the entire process demands full-time attention from the homeowner, my recollection of the process is filled more with laughter during our meetings and smiling from ear to ear throughout this entire journey. We’re incredibly lucky to have worked so well together on this project to build our forever home.”

— ROB DOUK, HOMEOWNER ME + REM

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2045 Lauwiliwili St., Unit 201, Kapolei, Oahu; (808) 230-3385; atnhawaii.com; License #BC-35190

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PHOTOS: ASIA BRYNNE, COURTESY OF ALL THINGS NEW; ALL THINGS NEW

As an award-winning company, All Things New has a track record for successful home builds and renovations. All Things New won the Builder and Interior Design categories in Hawaii Home + Remodeling’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards — a testament to the company’s work ethic and expansive services. As people have been spending more time indoors and improving their spaces this past year, Richie Breaux of All Things New has recognized a desire for outdoor living improvements and home offices and additions to accommodate remote work. He recommends that before starting any project, homeowners understand that “construction projects take planning, permitting and procurement time. Most projects aren’t able to start right away.” You’ll want to trust a team of experts that can design and build your dream home like All Things New.

BETTER BUILDERS

HOMEWORKS CONSTRUCTION

“From the initial consultation to the day we moved in, the team at Homeworks guided us through the entire designing and building process with patience and attention to detail.”

— JOHN AND SALLY R., HOMEOWNERS

Homeworks Construction has helped thousands of island residents create their dream homes for more than two decades. “We are a full-service design-build firm that has architects (and) kitchen and bath and interior design specialists on staff,” shares Marshall Hickox, president and chief administrative officer of Homeworks Construction.

“Beyond our normal construction plans, we render and carefully plan every detail of our kitchens and baths to ensure every detail is covered.”

As there have been major changes in the building industry brought on by the pandemic and economy — regarding building codes, energy codes, material costs and availability and more — it’s important to entrust your home project to a reliable team. Homeworks Construction is involved with the Building Industry Association of Hawaii and the National Association of Home Builders, which helps ensure the company is ready to address issues and help clients plan for the most economical and trouble-free building experience.

More than 1,000 homes built and renovated

In business for more than 25 years

MARSHALL HICKOX

Full-service design-build firm

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS:

Offers in-house design services

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PHOTOS: OLIVIER KONING, COURTESY OF HOMEWORKS CONSTRUCTION; HOMEWORKS CONSTRUCTION

2021

BETTER BUILDERS

2021

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S. Tanaka is named for Shinya Tanaka, the company founder

S. TANAKA CONSTRUCTION RYAN TANAKA

Family-owned business “When you partner with S. Tanaka, you’ll have the ability to handpick and design what’s best for your family’s needs”

“S. Tanaka Construction was so easy to work with from drafting a model of my future home [to] working with their selected vendors. S. Tanaka Construction’s team communicated with me on next steps throughout the project and kept me up to date on what was going on and project managed everything. Their team worked on ensuring that we were on target for completion and promptly answered all of the questions that I had. The project completed two months ahead of schedule and they exceeded my expectation! For any future construction needs that I may have, S. Tanaka Construction will always be my first and only choice.”

— VALERIE YAMAMOTO, HOMEOWNER

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1349 Mookaula St., Honolulu, Oahu; (808) 848-5010; stanakaconstruction.com; License #BC-29857

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PHOTOS: COURTESY OF S. TANAKA CONSTRUCTION

As a family-owned company, S. Tanaka Construction’s tight-knit team is committed to building homes that fit their clients’ needs. In business since 1984, the company has specialized in designing and constructing brand-new custom homes. With a newly built abode, you can create a home that’s tailor-made for your family. We’ve all seen how the pandemic has affected the building industry — from price increases to back-ordered items and more. One of the ways to ease the stress of starting a new home project is to find out if you’re pre-qualified for a loan before you even begin, recommends S. Tanaka Construction. This will ensure that the company can design and build to your budget.

BETTER BUILDERS

2021

AMANO CONSTRUCTION “As a developer, I have consistently used Amano Construction because I have found their staff and management to be reliable, accountable, and take personal pride in their work. In new construction, attention to detail is paramount, respectively if it is the foundation or a simple crown molding. The Amano team emulates this high quality mantra, along with a strong sense of aloha.”

— PATRICK, HOMEOWNER

Continues to offer excellent service and products

In business for 15 years

SCOTT AMANO

Family-owned company

Specializes in new home construction, remodeling and renovations

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Aiea, Oahu; (808) 232-5563; amanoconstruction.com; License #BC-28717

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PHOTOS: ARVYDAS PAULIUKAS, COURTESY OF AMANO CONSTRUCTION; AMANO CONSTRUCTION

Since 2006, Amano Construction has built more than 100 beautiful island homes — and has had the pleasure of having several repeat customers. “Our services are personal and many times the homeowners don’t have plans so we meet at their project site and help them develop their plans and offer ideas on their project,” shares Scott Amano of Amano Construction.

The family-owned company has spent more than a decade in the business and recommends that homeowners keep an open mind and realistic budget when entering the building process. Even with the impact of the pandemic, Amano Construction was able to carry on and be better prepared in case of material shortages or supply chain restrictions.

“We never lost sight of what the customers’ needs were to get their dream home built or their renovation done,” shares Amano.

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BETTER BUILDERS

2021

2020 Readers’ Choice Awards Winner for Bath Designer

J.R. MOORHEAD

Licensed general contractor

Specializes in custom condo renovations

BBB Rating

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Moorhead & Company Inc. has renovated more than 150 homes and condos since going into business nine years ago. Since then, the company has become skilled in remodels, which can be challenging when existing structures need to be removed or worked around. J.R. Moorhead of Moorhead & Company recommends that owners select all of the materials needed for their project before work begins. That way they’ll have a better idea of how much the project will cost. “Too many people design as they go and that is the perfect strategy to go over budget.”

Moorhead & Company, which can navigate the different rules and regulations of many condo buildings, has built up a reputation as the go-to experts in custom condo renovations. “We have relationships with lots of local and Mainland businesses. This allows us to give you a variety of price points, designs, looks and styles to choose from,” shares Moorhead. “We are good at bringing your style to life. Kitchens and bathrooms are usually the highlight of the home — this is where we shine.”

(808) 593-8000; moorheadbuild.com; License #BC-33756

PHOTO: COURTESY OF MOORHEAD & COMPANY INC.

MOORHEAD & COMPANY INC.

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED FOR THREE GENERATIONS SUPPLYING QUALITY BUILDING MATERIALS TO HAWAII CONTRACTORS SINCE 1979.

• PVC & Composite Decking • Cable Rail Systems • Lighting Options 2706 Kilihau St., Unit 100 | Honolulu, HI 96819 www.rwshawaii.com | 808-834-1344

• Exterior & Interior Use • Corrosion Resistant

O U T D O O R S PA C E

Bring Life to Your Outdoor Space Game changing updates that’ll prepare your home for outdoor gatherings.

BY CAITLIN BASILIO

ith longer days come more time spent outdoors. Make sure your outdoor space is ready for summertime gatherings, and that it remains a warm and inviting place for friends and family. Properly optimize your property’s square footage with these outdoor space essentials.

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Go with the Flow

“You want a flow from the inside to outside,” says Clifton Crawford of Pacific Pool & Spa. This can be done with new sliding glass doors that’ll connect indoor and outdoor spaces. Another great idea is to incorporate an outdoor kitchen to allow alfresco dining and entertaining. Whether big or small, you’ll want to be a part of the action outdoors.

Put it to Use

Before making any big decisions be sure to ask yourself what you need. “Creating a functional space that incorporates the comfort and convenience of your indoor living experiences can be that game-changer,” says Brad Iseri of HPM Building Supply. Perhaps a sink for prep, outdoor cabinets, a built-in grilling element and refrigerator. HPM Building Supply offers Open Air Cabinetry by DeSavino & Sons, which stands up to the elements while maintaining a luxurious look.

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PHOTO: COURTESY OF HPM BUILDING SUPPLY

O U T D O O R S PA C E

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Jump In

Pools are an obvious choice when considering updates to your outdoor space. If you already have a pool, think about adding a water feature like a bubbler. “Water in transit, water moving or making noise attracts people to it,” says Crawford. “Soothing water is nice and if you’re physically observing it by sight and sound, you’ll more than likely use your pool more often.”

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PHOTOS: DAVID CROXFORD, AARON K. YOSHINO; COURTESY OF INSPIRATION INTERIORS

O U T D O O R S PA C E

O U T D O O R S PA C E

Kick Your Feet Up

Shop around for some furniture pieces that add to the beauty of your outdoor space. A dining set from INspiration Interiors’ Caneline Collection or a seating area from its Muses Collection can transform the atmosphere of your outdoor space. The right furnishings are durable and are made of moistureresistant materials — ideal for Hawaii’s weather.

LET SELECTIVE STONE HELP TO BEAUTIFY YOUR LIVING SPACE, CALL US!

PHOTOS: DAVID CROXFORD, AARON K. YOSHINO; COURTESY OF INSPIRATION INTERIORS

MARBLE I GRANITE I BASALT I LIMESTONE I ENGINEERED QUARTZ I PORCELAIN, CERAMIC & SWIMMING POOL TILE I SINKS I LUXURY VINYL TILE I MAINTENANCE AND CARE PRODUCTS

Jinny & Kevin Nip

Shower On

Adding an outdoor shower makes it easy to rinse off before or after jumping into the pool. Making a bathroom accessible to the outdoors can be a plus as well. “A lot of people want to take a shower and change their clothes after swimming so having access to a bathroom a lot of times would be nice,” explains Crawford.

“Sometimes putting a door in the back could be your access.”

PHOTO: HAWKINS BIGGINS PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY OF MOORHEAD & COMPANY

YO UR CO MP LE TE STO NE CO MPANY 2979 Koapaka St. Honolulu, HI 96819 | Phone (808) 839.2979 | www.selectivestone.net Showroom Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm, Sat. 9:00am - 3:00pm hawaiihomemag.com • JULY 2021 • 49

WINDOWS & DOORS

Wide Open Pocket sliding doors offer sweeping views and let the outside in.

BY CAITLIN BASILIO PHOTOS BY AARON K. YOSHINO

omes are very intimate living spaces and windows and pocket sliding doors open the way to the beauty that lies beyond.

When it comes to selecting products, it’s important to define what you want and what your priorities are, such as views, ventilation and performance, according to Chris Ayres of Pacific Source. Also, take into consideration the intended use — whether windows need to be open most of the time for good airflow, or will be closed — and where the windows will be located. The same goes for sliding doors.

For the design of this home on Oahu’s North Shore, windows and pocket sliding doors were key. It features Fleetwood 250 windows and 3070 multi-slide doors that were designed to capture and enhance the allure of coastal living, says Ayres.

“Fleetwood’s ability to produce doors with large glass and minimal sight lines emphasize the incredible views of this location,” he says. “The slim sight lines and minimal 3070 track system promote indoor-outdoor living.

Whether the doors are open or closed, one cannot help but focus on the surrounding beauty.”

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WINDOWS & DOORS

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WINDOWS & DOORS

Serving Hawaii since 1990 32 Kainehe St., #101 Kailua, HI 96734 | (808) 261-3508 | clifton@pacpoolandspa.com

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Multi-slide doors are an appealing choice for homeowners because they disappear, adds Ayres. “When it comes to large openings, sliding doors often make up an entire wall.

What better way to bring the outdoors in — or ease the transition from living space to lanai — than to pocket the doors so that when they are fully open, they are hidden out of sight.”

If wall space is available, it’s a great way to create wow factor and to feature specific openings and views, Ayres says.

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Fleetwood specializes in modern luxury windows and doors. “It’s known for its slim sight lines and design that allows the product to blend into many architectural motifs,” he explains.

Large windows and sliding doors are captivating features to have in your home. “Here in Hawaii, the beauty of the islands is often at the forefront of building and design,” shares Ayres. “This leads to large openings that allow us to appreciate the views.”

Winner

Landscaping & Water Fe atures

Winner Landscaping

Steve’s Gardening Service PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR Construction & design I Installation & maintenance Residential & commercial Landscape lighting/repair I Irrigation installation/repair I Organic/natural fertilizers + insecticides I Pavers, concrete finishes, flagstone + stepping stones

FREE ESTIMATES: (808) 676-9166 | stevesgardening.com

GO ONLINE TO SEE OUR PHOTO GALLERY

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MAINTENANCE

Tips and tricks for maintaining your home cooling systems.

BY CAITLIN BASILIO

he days are longer, hotter and more humid — it’s summer after all — and the last thing homeowners want is for their cooling systems to break down.

Many experts say that maintaining your systems regularly is key to lasting functionality.

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AC REFRESHER Maintenance on your heating, ventilation and air conditioner systems should be done on a regular basis, depending on usage. “Usually after two years of operation, you can tell the maintenance timing,” says John Arizumi of Carrier Hawaii. “If you wait until something goes wrong, you’re prone to major damage or have a unit fail during the heat of summer.”

PHOTOS & ILLUSTRATIONS: GETTY IMAGES

Keeping it Cool

MAINTENANCE

Arizumi shares that common problems are dirty filters and indoor coils, clogged condensate drains and dirty outdoor condenser coils.

It’s important to keep your units clean, especially the indoor filter, which needs to be cleaned regularly, Arizumi says. “This will keep the indoor coil clean and cooling efficiently. If the indoor or outdoor coil is dirty, just vacuum the surfaces to remove lint and debris. To clean the condensate drain, pour at least a quart of water slowly into the indoor condensate drain pan to flush the pan and piping of slime and algae.

Then, make sure water flows freely.”

An energy-saving tip from Arizumi: Set your home’s thermostat at the highest, or warmest, temperature that feels comfortable. “Too cold wastes energy; 75-78 degrees is usually comfortable,” he says.

EASY BREEZY When it comes to whole-house fans, Island Cooling’s QuietCool advanced whole-house fans are designed to be relatively maintenance free.

“Most homeowners will want to dust their ceiling intake grills periodically,” says Al Whitworth of Island Cooling. “Newer systems have removable ceiling grills that make this job easier. At the same time, it’s a good idea to check that the damper doors are properly closing.” If they’re not, he suggests customers contact Island Cooling’s service department.

Call Today for a FREE In-Home Estimate

(808) 690-8182

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LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED – SERVING HAWAII FOR 28 YEARS.

Hawai‘i’s only Manufacturer of Custom Tropical Polymer & Natural Hardwood Shutters Offering Hawaii’s largest selection of shutters, frames & color We pride our shutters on durability & quality • Limited lifetime warranty

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READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

2021

RIVER ROCKS / STEPPING STONES G A R D E N O R N A M E N TS / C O N C R E T E P R O D U C TS

94-995 Waipahu St. (808) 671-7482

Mon-Fri 7:30 am - 4:30 pm Sat 7:30 am-4:00 pm Sun 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

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I N D U S T R Y WAT C H

M The Value in Customer Reviews The Better Business Bureau provides a useful resource that benefits both businesses and consumers.

our home remodeling project should begin long before construction gets underway. Finding the right design professional is the first and most important step.

The search for a trustworthy contractor should, of course, include a check to see if the appropriate licenses and registrations are in place. But a close look at customer reviews and complaints, like those available on BBB.org, is equally essential.

According to Website Builder, 97% of shoppers are influenced by customer reviews and 84% trust online

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reviews as much as recommendations from friends.

Consumers share their experiences to help others make better buying decisions, reward companies for excellent performance and warn consumers about substandard services or products.

Around 20% of reviews are fake, so reading the full assessment will likely reveal more than a quick glance at a star rating. If a company experiences a significant increase in reviews in only a short amount of time, that surge could be a sign of paid or fake endorsements.

Some review sites show you the reviewer’s history;

PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

BY ROSEANN FREITAS

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I N D U S T R Y WAT C H

check to see if the feedback was submitted locally. Reviews made from afar are often a red flag.

The Better Business Bureau’s customer review process authenticates feedback shared on its online directory. Successfully filtering out any fake or unfounded reviews is done by:

ublishing the customer reviews to the company’s •P BBB business profile.

llowing the reviewer to submit comments on the •A customer review.

Reviews can be a useful resource for both businesses and consumers, even if what is shared is less than positive. Customers tend to be skeptical of a company with a perfect score, so tough feedback helps paint a more realistic picture. Negative reviews can also help a company learn and make necessary corrections.

If you’ve worked with a credible, trustworthy company, make sure you leave a review. Sharing your experience can help other consumers connect with and support the business.

And don’t leave your home project to chance. Do your homework up front by visiting BBB.org.

•S crubbing reviews to remove any inappropriate language or personal information.

Roseann Freitas is the Hawaii marketplace manager for the Better Business Bureau Great West + Pacific.

•V alidating an email address or phone number of the reviewer.

•L etting the business confirm the interaction with the customer and providing an opportunity to respond.

Mahalo! Readers’ Choice Winner for Roofing Contractor!

• Over 30 Years of Quality Roofing Experience

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

2021

• Oahu’s only Certified GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractor & Malarkey Emerald Pro Installer • Offering the BEST warranties in the industry

Schedule your FREE Estimate Today! (808) 621-7663

KAPILI ROOFING

kapiliroof.com | 94-221 Leonui St. Waipahu, HI 96797

Lic. # CT-21890 / C-28938

& PA I N T I N G

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Picnic Pick-Me-Ups

BY STACEY MAKIYA AND CHRISTI YOUNG PHOTO BY AARON K. YOSHINO

the sun is out longer these days, so step it up with a stylish outdoor spread of local eats and treats.

Clockwise from top middle: Indigo blanket, $78, and Waialua Linen Napkin Set in curry, $26 for two, Roberta Oaks, robertaoaks.com; round berry bowl in aqua, $10, SoHa Living, sohaliving.com; Turkish towel, $58, Roberta Oaks; Aloha Wraps pineapple paper sandwich bag, $9 for 50, SoHa Living; acacia cutting board, $35, cheese spreader, $12, sugar spoon, 4 for $32, Kiss That Frog seagrass carafe, $35, and cup, $15, Olive Boutique, oliveandoliverhawaii.com.

Food featured: Breadshop multigrain, breadsbybreadshop.com; Sweet Land Farm Pohaku cheese, sweetlandfarmhawaii.com; Kula Country strawberries, kulacountryfarmsmaui.com; Ola lemongrass and mint hard seltzer and Hawaiian tulsi berry hard tea, olabrewco.com; Manoa Honey ohia lehua, manoahoney.com; La Tour Café French macarons in blueberry cheesecake and birthday cake, latourcafe.com.

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Mahalo Hawaii for selecting us as your Cooling & Air Conditioning Company!

Locally owned and operated, serving Hawaii & the Pacific for 60 Years.

is the world’s No.1 Air conditioning company.

What does Daikin Inverter Technology do?

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

• Adjusts automatically for consistent cooling • Is whisper-quiet • Energy-saving innovation means more money in your pocket

2021

12 Year Warranty on Daikin’s 19 SEER and multi-zone systems!

Call Cosco today 1-800-262-9399 Oahu 2312 Kamehameha Hwy. B-1 Honolulu (808) 845-2234

Maui 220 Lalo St. #2 Kahului (808) 871-6285

Big Island 73-5574 Olowalu St. Kona (808) 326-2505

Kauai 1885 Haleukana St. Lihue (808) 632-2153

coscohawaii.com

We measure our success by the positive differences we make in others’ lives $738,200

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Insured by NCUA Figures are from 2020 HawaiiUSA Community Outreach activities