A collaboration between the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement and local AIA Maui chapter architectural firms including Hawaii Off Grid Architecture + Engineering provides support to homeowners who survived the Maui wildfires in the form of free or reduced-cost home design plans and rebuilding assistance.
HIOG has donated several pre-approved home plans ranging from one-bedroom cottages to six-bedroom duplexes designed with the needs of Maui’s community in mind, as well as the island’s climate and culture.
Two of HIOG’s designs – Hale Nui Lāʻau and Hale Lāʻau – incorporate “mass timber,” a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel-intensive materials offering cost savings and a positive environmental impact, according to a release. The plans include architectural drawings, floor plans, elevations and all required permitting and construction documents. Assistance with the permitting process can also be provided.
The initiative aims to streamline the rebuilding process while complying with local building regulations and standards.
“This effort demonstrates the spirit of unity and resilience as Maui rebuilds,” said David Sellers, principal architect at Hawaii Off Grid and AIA Maui president, in the release. “By coming together, we’re offering hope and support to those who need it most, ensuring survivors have the tools to rebuild their homes and futures. Choosing a pre-designed plan can save months of time. Currently we are seeing permits approved within weeks.
“For homeowners who are not ready or do not have the funds right now, that’s okay. Let us help you get on a path to rebuild with a permit in hand and we can help direct you to funding options. Let us help you get a design and permit and get you one step closer,” Sellers said.
More information is available at the CNHA website.
