As we embrace World Design Day on April 27, we are reminded of how much design impacts the world around us. In the midst of Hawaii’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, we find inspiration that fuels our passions for shaping spaces that not only reflect beauty but also enhance the lives of those who inhabit them.

Whether it’s the architecture that shapes our skylines, the interiors that envelop us in comfort, or the landscapes that invite us to explore, design speaks a universal language that transcends boundaries and connects us all. Our architecture and interiors are informed and shaped by the ebb and flow of lives and landscapes, and our ultimate goal is to seek an emotional engagement with the culture, environment and people through thoughtful, informed design.

At InForm Design, we believe in the transformative power of design to uplift and empower communities. One of the ways we do this is by partnering with local artisans to showcase their craftsmanship. Here are a few examples:

‘A‘ali‘i Ward Village

A beacon of contemporary island living, ‘A‘ali‘i Ward Village features 751 studio, one- and two-bedroom homes, complemented by two levels of luxurious amenities. Our team was tasked with outfitting select residences, meticulously curating bedding, linens, electronics, accessories, and artwork to ensure a seamless move-in experience. Opting for a design palette that strikes a balance between warmth and neutrality, with splashes of color, the team crafted interiors that exude timeless appeal. Local artwork, showcasing the talent and creativity of Hawaii’s artists and photographers, adorns the common areas and amenity spaces, infusing the environment with a sense of community and cultural richness.

Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra

For Ala Moana Hotel’s 50th anniversary, InForm Design modernized the common areas and third-floor pool deck in a timeless expression of Hawai‘i. In the newly renovated lobby, guests are welcomed by the wood barrel-vaulted ceiling, constellation-inspired large woven chandelier, new furniture, and a spectacular 60-foot-long three-panel mural commissioned by local artist Kamea Hadar. Vibrant, colorful, and a little bit retro, the mural depicts the islands’ vibrant flora and fauna from mauka (mountain) to makai (ocean), paying homage to the diverse cultures within and beyond the hotel’s walls.

Ulana Ward Village Custom Desk

This monkeypod desk was custom designed for the Ulana Ward Village Sales Gallery. We teamed up with a local millworker to create a one-of-a-kind piece that was not only functional and eye catching, but also paid homage to the IBM Building’s mid-century architecture, designed in 1962 by famed Hawaii architect Vladimir Ossipoff. To add a more soulful and handcrafted look, the curved waterfall edge of the desk incorporated butterfly patches which are prevalent in many natural edge Hawaiian style slab tables for both structural as well as decorative purposes.

As we celebrate World Design Day, we extend our heartfelt mahalo to our clients and collaborators, who have inspired us to transform our creative visions into reality, impacting the world around us.