Eerkes Architects creates a dream home on Kaua‘i’s south shore that balances the desire for gathering spaces with private retreats.
The open entry courtyard welcomes guests with views through the home to the ocean in the distance. PHOTO BY ALOHA PHOTO DESIGN
“The client’s brief was to create a gathering place—that capitalized on the views—for large groups including family and friends, which also provided privacy for the owners,” explains Les Eerkes, Principal of Eerkes Architects (eerkesarchitects.com). “Much of the architecture was based on my experiences living on Kaua‘i and love of its many nuances. I wanted the home to capture sunrises and sunsets and the big views of the ocean, but also to provide intimate spaces surrounded by tropical plants, and especially to connect to the birdlife and forest in the ravine.”
The residence in Kukui’ula, Kaua‘i, conceived as three distinct “islands” connected by bridges, was centered on a high point in the middle of the site, which sloped off in three directions. The heart of this plantation-style pavilion home is its dramatic central living space, thoughtfully positioned to embrace the serene entry courtyard with a reflecting pool to the north and sweeping ocean vistas to the south. This “center island” gathering area serves as a hub where family and friends can witness nature’s daily spectacle—from whale sightings to technicolor sunsets.
The design of this estate is conceived as three “islands” connected by bridges—a direct response to the site being centered on a high point that sloped off in three directions. PHOTO BY ALOHA PHOTO DESIGN
Responding ingeniously to the site’s demanding topography, the architects crafted two flanking bedroom wings that serve distinct purposes. The primary suite “island” angles westward, offering a protected sanctuary overlooking a verdant ravine where resident birds provide constant entertainment. The guest suite “island” faces east, treating visitors to sunrise views over the Pacific.
Like a dimmer for the sun, Lutron (luxury.lutron.com) automatic window shades also provide UV protection. PHOTO BY ALOHA PHOTO DESIGN
Eerkes Architects worked with builder Greenwood Homes (greenwood-homes.com), and the project’s innovative construction utilized advanced digital fabrication techniques in collaboration with Spearhead of Nelson, BC, Canada. This precision-driven approach allowed for the pre-finishing and prefabricating of timber elements before their careful assembly on-site. Materials throughout the home pay homage to Kaua‘i’s natural elements—flamed basalt flooring echoes the island’s volcanic foundation, while fieldstone lava walls and coral cladding root the structure in its environment. Rich woods add warmth to the contemporary design. The exterior entertainment areas present two distinct experiences: a south-facing pool terrace featuring sunken lounge seating and a linear fire pit perfect for stargazing, and a protected north courtyard offering quiet contemplation of Kaua‘i’s mountain scenery. This duality of spaces allows for both vibrant social gatherings and peaceful reflection.
What makes this residence exceptional is the multiple pavilion approach, which not only satisfies development guidelines but also creates a harmonious relationship between private and social spaces, all while celebrating the island’s natural beauty from every angle.
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