The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua is set to reveal the final phase of its $100 million revamp by the end of 2022. Led by Honolulu-based WCIT Architecture and Los Angeles-based Dianna Wong Architecture + Interior Design, the comprehensive renovation infuses a more restorative ethos across the property’s guestrooms and public spaces.
“The design concepts were conceived during the middle of the pandemic when our basic need to retreat and restore our bodies and our spirit was very present. Who can imagine a more perfect sanctuary than a resort, perched on 54 acres of verdant landscape overlooking the Pacific?” Dianna Wong says. “The healing properties of the site and the elements of nature inspired us—we used the colors, forms, and patterns found in nature for the design.”
Vibrant color and native flora will punctuate the arrival experience within a new lobby lanai—or porch—that will frame views of Honokahua Bay. An infinity-edge lanai will further bond indoor and outdoor spaces along with eye-catching details, like light fixtures that recall ancient fishing traps and sea glass pendants that exude the blue and green hues of the sea. Traditional lei and kapa patterns will be reinterpreted through a modern lens across the property, with motifs like carved wood pilasters reminiscent of Kapalua’s peaks and valleys and carpeting that showcases maritime imagery. “Our design seeks to honor the heritage of the land and its people,” Wong adds.
The centerpiece of the reimagined resort will be the 10,000-square-foot pool experience, which will draw inspiration from the natural lava rock formation found at Makaluapuna Point. The resort’s three zero edge pools will be linked via cascading waterfalls to extend the beach ambiance. Seven types of custom luxury cabanas—featuring notes of blue and green inspired by indigenous flowers—will also line the pooldecks.
Among the updated F&B options will be the redesigned Ulana Terrace; the indoor-outdoor Banyan Tree restaurant; the gourmet Kai Café; the poolside Olu Café; and the Alaloa Lounge in the lobby, which will pay homage to Hawaiian voyaging canoes with dark wood and rope accents. The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge at the Anuenue Room will also open, offering a private indoor-outdoor setting conceived for both socializing and solitude.
Transformed by Philpotts Interiors, each accommodation will capture the natural beauty of the setting, complete with terraces accented by delicate sand tones and custom wood finishes. Azure and deep green hues will echo ocean and garden views just beyond floor-to-ceiling windows, while dark wood will offset the tropical flair of the carpeting. A premium room category, the Fire Lanai collection, is also set to debut onsite in November. Located on the ground floor of the Nāpili Tower, each distinguished suite will promote outdoor living with a shade trellis, hammock, sundeck, and fire pit.
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