Often when people think about living in Hawaii, they picture a laid-back, beachfront lifestyle that’s far removed from city life. However, Ward Village, a 60-acre master-planned community in the heart of Honolulu’s Kakaako neighborhood, is shifting that narrative. It’s here that city convenience meets island living, creating a unique urban paradise that’s been meticulously designed to offer a superior quality of life. Here are the top ten reasons why Ward Village is the best place to live in Honolulu.
1. Master-planned Community
Ward Village isn’t just another neighborhood; it’s a visionary community brought to life by The Howard Hughes Corporation. Every element, from the architecture and street layouts to the amenities and community events, has been thoughtfully designed to create an environment that enriches residents’ quality of life.
Spanning over 60 acres along the shoreline of south Oahu, Ward Village is set to redefine urban living in Hawaii. The aim is to create a neighborhood where residents can live, work, and play, all within a walkable distance. The master plan includes over 4,500 residences and over one million square feet of retail and commercial space. But it’s not just about the numbers; the plan places a strong emphasis on community, sustainability, and honoring the rich cultural history of the area.
2. Commitment to Sustainability
Ward Village is at the forefront of sustainable living in Hawaii. It’s the first neighborhood in the state and the largest in the country to receive LEED-ND Platinum certification, the highest level of certification awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council.
From the design of the buildings to the landscaping, every aspect of Ward Village embodies conscious, eco-friendly living. The buildings feature energy-efficient designs, the streets are lined with native plants to reduce water usage, and the neighborhood has committed to reducing car dependency through a pedestrian-friendly layout and a bike-sharing program. Living in Ward Village means being part of a community that cares deeply about the environment.
3. World-class Architecture
Architecture isn’t just about aesthetics in Ward Village; it’s about creating spaces that inspire and enhance the quality of life. The neighborhood is home to a collection of residential towers designed by some of the most respected architects from around the globe.
For example, the Waiea tower, designed by James K.M. Cheng in collaboration with Rob Iopa and WCIT Architecture, is a stunning glass structure inspired by Hawaii’s natural landscape. The Anaha tower, on the other hand, features a distinctive wave-like façade designed by Chicago-based firm Solomon Cordwell Buenz.
Each building in Ward Village is a work of art in its own right, offering residents not just a home, but a piece of world-class design.
4. Diverse Living Options
Ward Village caters to a broad range of lifestyle needs and preferences. Whether you’re in the market for a brand new Kakaako condo in 2023, a luxurious penthouse with ocean views, or an affordable city condo, you’re sure to find a home that suits your needs in this community.
From the high-end residences of Waiea and Anaha, which offer lavish amenities and unparalleled views, to the reserved housing units of Ke Kilohana, which are designed to be more accessible to local residents, Ward Village condos accommodate most every lifestyle and budget.