The Pacific Beach Hotel in Waikiki will undergo a $115 million overhaul and rebrand as the Alohilani Resort at Waikiki Beach by next fall. Rockwell Group, along with architectural firms WATG and locally based studio Pacific Asia Design Group have been tapped to revamp the 839 guestrooms and public spaces.
A landscaped porte-cochère will lead guests to the main entrance, which will be framed by four oversized louvered shutters. Pockets of gardens will appear throughout the property, highlighting the island’s lush landscapes. The hotel lobby will be redesigned with an open floor plan, new guest services, and concierge areas, as well as a lobby bar, exclusive arrival lounge, and business and education centers. Custom furnishings from Rockwell Group will include a limestone reception desk, white slipcovered sofas, organic live-edge tables, and tropical light fixtures.
“Influenced by Kuhio beach, we are blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor to connect guests to the ocean,” says Shawn Sullivan, Rockwell Group partner and studio leader. “The Morimoto restaurants and pool deck will have stunning views of the water, while neutral hues and organic forms will transform the lobby, retail areas, and guestrooms into warm, welcoming spaces.”
The guestrooms’ distinct Hawaiian style will be refreshed with a modern appeal more akin to a beach house. Inspired by Honolulu culture and landscapes, Rockwell Group’s designs will include natural materials like wood, stone, and concrete, while a palette of white and beige will be accented by blue and green to infuse the spaces with an airy quality. Native Hawaiian design will be represented with lava stone mosaic accents, woven columns, and artwork.
Under a canopy of palm trees, the resort’s pool deck will feature a saltwater infinity pool overlooking the coast, a pool bar, tiered daybeds, and a shallow children’s pool. Custom teak lounge furniture, driftwood sculptures, lanterns, festoon lighting, and firepits will enhance the outdoor environment.
Two contemporary dining concepts from chef Masaharu Morimoto will be introduced with the rebranding along with a beer garden. The onsite 280,000 gallon saltwater oceanarium will also receive an upgrade with the incorporation of new coral, influenced by the reef formations found in the nearby waters.
