Nestled between downtown Honolulu and Waikiki, Kakaako has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade. Once a utilitarian industrial district characterized by warehouses and auto repair shops, this 600-acre coastal area has evolved into Oahu’s most dynamic urban neighborhood. In 2025, Kakaako stands at a pivotal moment in its development journey, with several groundbreaking projects reshaping its skyline and redefining urban living in Hawaii.
This comprehensive guide explores the five most significant construction projects currently transforming Kakaako, examining their unique features, community impacts, and what they reveal about the future of urban development in paradise. From cutting-edge sustainable architecture to innovative mixed-use spaces, these projects represent the next chapter in Kakaako’s ongoing renaissance.
The Evolution of Kakaako: From Industrial Hub to Urban Oasis
Before diving into the newest developments, it’s worth understanding Kakaako’s remarkable journey. Historically, this area served as a fishing village for Native Hawaiians before transforming into an industrial center in the early 20th century. By the 1970s, the neighborhood had fallen into decline, but visionary urban planning and strategic investment have since catalyzed its rebirth.
The Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA), established in 1976, has overseen Kakaako’s master-planned revitalization, emphasizing walkability, mixed-use development, public spaces, and connectivity. Today’s Kakaako blends luxury high-rises with affordable housing, creative spaces, retail destinations, and cultural venues—all while maintaining connections to its industrial heritage through adaptive reuse projects and design elements.
In 2025, Kakaako is experiencing an unprecedented construction boom with multiple major development projects simultaneously transforming the neighborhood. These projects span across two primary development zones: Ward Village, managed by Howard Hughes Corporation, and Our Kaka’ako, overseen by Kamehameha Schools. Together, these developments are creating a diverse urban landscape with mixed housing options ranging from ultra-luxury to workforce and affordable units.
Let’s explore the most significant construction projects defining Kakaako’s evolution in 2025, including both the five major infrastructure projects and the notable residential developments reshaping the skyline.
1. Aalii Tower Complex: Redefining Urban Living in Kakaako
Completion Date: Mid-2025
Developer: Howard Hughes Corporation
Investment: $400 million
Condos for sale in Aalii
A New Paradigm for Hawaiian Urban Living
The Aalii Tower Complex represents a bold reimagining of high-density living in Hawaii. This striking 43-story residential tower introduces 751 units to the neighborhood, deliberately balancing market-rate condominiums with workforce housing to maintain Kakaako’s socioeconomic diversity. What distinguishes Aalii isn’t merely its impressive height or sleek glass exterior, but its innovative approach to urban island living.
Smart Living Features
The development has embraced technology throughout its design, implementing:
- Voice-activated home systems in all units
- Building-wide water recycling infrastructure
- Smart climate control that adapts to weather patterns
- Community-based energy monitoring systems
- Integrated ride-sharing and transportation hubs
Sustainability at the Forefront
Environmental consciousness defines the Aalii project, with features including:
- A 40,000-square-foot photovoltaic array generating approximately 20% of the building’s energy needs
- Hawaii’s largest residential rainwater harvesting system, capturing an estimated 2 million gallons annually
- Native plant landscaping requiring minimal irrigation
- Natural ventilation systems reducing air conditioning requirements by an estimated 30%
- Construction materials sourced with low carbon footprints
Community Integration
Aalii doesn’t exist in isolation but actively contributes to neighborhood vibrancy through:
- Over 25,000 square feet of street-level retail prioritizing local businesses
- A public art program featuring rotating exhibitions from Hawaiian artists
- Three publicly accessible rooftop gardens showcasing endemic plant species
- Community workspaces designed to foster entrepreneurship
- Regular cultural programming in collaboration with local organizations
The ‘A’ali’i Tower exemplifies how high-density urban development can respect Hawaiian cultural values while embracing innovation. Its success will likely influence residential projects throughout Hawaii for years to come.
2. Victoria Place: Luxury Reimagined
Completion Date: Late 2025
Developer: Howard Hughes Corporation
Investment: $550 million
The Crown Jewel of Ward Village
As the newest addition to the award-winning Ward Village master-planned community, Victoria Place represents the pinnacle of luxury oceanfront living in Kakaako. Standing 40 stories tall with just 350 residences, this exclusive tower emphasizes spacious floor plans and unobstructed views of the Pacific. Unlike earlier luxury developments in the area, Victoria Place incorporates numerous elements that connect residents with Hawaiian cultural heritage and natural ecosystems.
Design Philosophy
Victoria Place’s architectural vision, led by Solomon Cordwell Buenz in collaboration with Native Hawaiian cultural consultants, draws inspiration from traditional Hawaiian concepts:
- A curvilinear façade echoing the movement of ocean waves
- Interior spaces organized around the Hawaiian concept of “mauka to makai” (mountain to ocean)
- Strategic orientation maximizing natural light while minimizing heat gain
- Use of locally sourced materials, including lava stone and indigenous woods
- Landscaping featuring exclusively native plant species
Amenities Redefined
The development raises the bar for residential amenities in Hawaii with:
- A 75-meter infinity pool appearing to merge with the ocean horizon
- Private beach access with equipment storage and recreational facilities
- Dedicated cultural learning spaces featuring regular programming
- Wellness facilities including thermal experience rooms and meditation gardens
- Chef’s kitchen and dining areas for community gatherings
Community Contributions
What truly distinguishes Victoria Place is its substantial investment in the broader community:
- The creation of a three-acre public oceanfront park with native landscaping
- Restoration of historical fishponds adjacent to the property
- Establishment of a marine conservation fund supporting local ocean protection initiatives
- Cultural installations educating visitors about the area’s historical significance
- Apprenticeship programs for local artisans incorporated throughout construction
Victoria Place demonstrates how ultra-luxury development can harmonize with public benefit, setting new standards for how high-end properties can positively impact their surrounding communities.
3. Koula Innovation Center: Fostering Hawaii’s Tech Ecosystem
Completion Date: Q3 2025
Developer: Kamehameha Schools & Castle Foundation
Investment: $380 million
Catalyzing Hawaii’s Knowledge Economy
The Koula Innovation Center represents Hawaii’s most ambitious attempt to diversify its economy beyond tourism and military spending. This 28-story commercial complex is explicitly designed to foster technology entrepreneurship, research, and innovation. Unlike conventional office towers, the Koula center functions as an integrated ecosystem where education, research, and commercialization converge.
Technological Infrastructure
The building incorporates cutting-edge technological capabilities:
- Hawaii’s most advanced telecommunications infrastructure with redundant systems
- Research-grade computing facilities including quantum computing capabilities
- Cybersecurity features exceeding federal government standards
- Flexible power systems accommodating intensive computing needs
- Specialized labs configured for biotechnology, renewable energy, and marine science
Spatial Configuration
The center’s physical design facilitates innovation through:
- Modular workspaces that can be reconfigured as organizations evolve
- Collaboration zones strategically positioned to encourage cross-disciplinary interaction
- Prototype development facilities including 3D printing and advanced manufacturing equipment
- Living laboratory spaces where new technologies can be tested in real-world conditions
- Pitch theaters and demonstration spaces for presenting to investors and partners
Industry Integration
The Koula Innovation Center has already secured commitments from:
- Three major technology companies establishing Hawaii operations
- Two research universities creating satellite innovation programs
- A venture capital consortium focused on Pacific Rim technologies
- Government agencies developing climate resilience technologies
- Local startups focusing on Hawaii-specific challenges
Educational Component
Beyond commercial interests, the center emphasizes education through:
- A dedicated STEM education center serving K-12 students from across Oahu
- Apprenticeship programs connecting students with resident companies
- Professional development facilities for workforce upskilling
- Cultural innovation programs exploring indigenous knowledge systems
- Regular public lectures and demonstrations for community engagement
The Koula Innovation Center represents a crucial investment in Hawaii’s economic future, potentially positioning the islands as a strategic innovation hub between North America and Asia.
4. Ala Moana Transit Hub: Connecting Communities in Kakaako
Completion Date: End of 2025
Developer: Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation & Brookfield Properties
Investment: $320 million
The Transportation Revolution
The Ala Moana Transit Hub represents the most significant infrastructure investment in Kakaako’s transformation, serving as the critical eastern terminus of Honolulu‘s rail system. This multimodal transportation center does far more than facilitate movement—it creates a vibrant public space that enhances neighborhood connectivity while addressing longstanding traffic challenges facing Honolulu.
Infrastructure Elements
The hub incorporates multiple transportation modes:
- Rail station connecting to Honolulu’s 20-mile elevated rail system
- Bus terminal serving both local and express routes
- Dedicated rideshare pickup and dropoff zones
- Electric vehicle charging infrastructure for public use
- Hawaii’s largest bicycle storage and service facility
Transit-Oriented Development
The project extends beyond transportation to include:
- 150,000 square feet of retail space emphasizing local businesses
- Affordable housing units integrated directly with the transit facilities
- Public plazas designed for community events and gatherings
- Green spaces incorporating native landscaping and water features
- Cultural installations highlighting Hawaii’s transportation history
Technological Innovation
The hub employs advanced systems to enhance mobility:
- Real-time transit information accessible via multiple platforms
- Integrated payment systems across transportation modes
- Predictive algorithms optimizing transit connections
- Energy capture systems harnessing kinetic energy from foot traffic
- Climate-responsive design elements adapting to weather conditions
Community Impact
The Ala Moana Transit Hub addresses several critical challenges:
- Reducing traffic congestion in one of Hawaii’s most congested areas
- Lowering transportation costs for residents through affordable transit options
- Diminishing carbon emissions by encouraging public transportation use
- Enhancing neighborhood walkability through pedestrian-friendly design
- Creating economic opportunities through increased foot traffic
This transformative project demonstrates how transportation infrastructure can evolve beyond utilitarian purposes to become true community assets that enhance quality of life while addressing environmental concerns.
5. Kakaako Waterfront Revitalization: Reclaiming the Coastline
Completion Date: Phased throughout 2025
Developer: State of Hawaii & The Trust for Public Land
Investment: $280 million
Reconnecting with the Ocean
The Kakaako Waterfront Revitalization represents the most ambitious public space project in Honolulu’s recent history. This comprehensive transformation of nearly one mile of coastline reclaims industrial waterfront for public use while implementing crucial climate resilience measures. The project honors the area’s historical significance as a gathering place while preparing for environmental challenges of the coming decades.
Environmental Restoration
The revitalization prioritizes ecological health through:
- Restoration of coastal wetlands functioning as natural stormwater management
- Rehabilitation of marine habitats supporting native species
- Removal of industrial contaminants from previous uses
- Creation of living shorelines absorbing wave energy
- Establishment of wildlife corridors connecting fragmented habitats
Recreational Opportunities
The redesigned waterfront offers diverse recreational spaces:
- Expanded beach areas with improved water quality monitoring
- A continuous coastal promenade connecting previously separated sections
- Ocean sports facilities supporting paddling, swimming, and surfing
- Accessible water entry points for people of all abilities
- Nature-based playgrounds incorporating environmental education
Climate Resilience
The project incorporates forward-thinking adaptations for climate change:
- Living breakwaters reducing wave impacts during storm events
- Elevated areas protecting critical infrastructure from sea-level rise
- Permeable surfaces allowing natural water infiltration
- Salt-tolerant landscaping anticipating changing conditions
- Flexible spaces that can serve as emergency gathering areas
Cultural Significance
Throughout the revitalization, cultural elements honor the area’s heritage:
- Interpretive installations explaining traditional Hawaiian uses of the coastline
- Gathering spaces designed for cultural practices and ceremonies
- Native plant collections highlighting traditional uses and significance
- Archaeological preservation of discovered historical elements
- Regular programming exploring Hawaiian relationships with the ocean
The Kakaako Waterfront Revitalization demonstrates a holistic approach to public space development that balances recreational needs, environmental restoration, climate preparedness, and cultural significance.
Additional Major Residential Developments
Beyond the five major infrastructure projects detailed above, Kakaako’s residential landscape is experiencing a significant transformation through several noteworthy developments:
Our Kaka’ako Master Plan Projects
The Our Kaka’ako district, developed by Kamehameha Schools, is seeing several major residential projects that will dramatically reshape this portion of the neighborhood:
Kali’u at Our Kaka’ako
Completion Date: Late 2025
Developer: Kamehameha Schools & Development Partner
Investment: $280 million
This luxury high-rise condo project represents one of the most anticipated additions to the Our Kaka’ako master plan. Standing at 400 feet with 294 residential units, Kali’u combines high-end design with strategic community integration. Sales for owner-occupants officially began on February 27, 2025, with strong initial demand.
The development features:
- Contemporary architectural design emphasizing indoor-outdoor living
- Units ranging from studios to three-bedroom residences
- Amenity deck with infinity pool, fitness center, and co-working spaces
- Ground-floor retail focused on local businesses and artisans
- Integrated art installations from Hawaiian artists
Kahuina in Our Kaka’ako
Completion Date: Mid-2026 (groundbreaking early 2025)
Developer: Stanford Carr Development
Investment: $320 million
Though still in early construction phases, the Kahuina project represents a cornerstone of the Our Kaka’ako vision. This mixed-use development balances residential, commercial, and community spaces within a cohesive design concept.
Key features include:
- Mixed-income housing model with market-rate and workforce units
- Innovation hub supporting local entrepreneurs
- Public plaza designed for community gatherings and events
- Sustainable building systems emphasizing water and energy conservation
- Cultural programming spaces integrated throughout
Waiakoa in Our Kaka’ako
Completion Date: Phased through 2026-2027 (initial groundbreaking late 2025)
Developer: Kamehameha Schools & Development Partners
Investment: $650 million
This ambitious project represents the largest single residential development within Our Kaka’ako, featuring two towers with a combined 1,032 units. The development embodies the neighborhood’s commitment to housing diversity with a mix of market-rate, workforce, and affordable units.
The project will include:
- Two distinctive towers with complementary architectural approaches
- Community-focused amenities including shared gardens and recreation spaces
- Integrated commercial spaces prioritizing local businesses
- Substantial affordable housing component exceeding HCDA requirements
- Pedestrian-friendly design connecting to the broader neighborhood
Ward Village Master Plan Developments
The Howard Hughes Corporation continues to advance its award-winning Ward Village master plan with several high-profile residential projects:
Ulana Ward Village
Status: Topped off September 2024, completion mid-2025
Developer: Howard Hughes Corporation
Units: 697 reserved and workforce homes
Ulana represents Ward Village’s most substantial commitment to affordable housing, providing nearly 700 reserved and workforce units. The project reached its construction milestone in September 2024 when it was topped off, with completion scheduled for mid-2025.
Notable features include:
- Energy-efficient design reducing utility costs for residents
- Community spaces fostering interaction among residents
- Integrated access to Ward Village amenities and retail
- Transit-oriented location near future rail connections
- Family-focused amenities including children’s play areas
Kalae Ward Village
Status: Construction underway (broke ground January 2024)
Developer: Howard Hughes Corporation
Units: 330 luxury residences
As a front-row oceanfront tower within Ward Village, Kalae offers premium positioning with unobstructed views of the Pacific. Construction began in January 2024 and has progressed steadily, with completion anticipated in early 2026.
The development features:
- Oceanfront positioning maximizing views and natural light
- Premium finishes and contemporary design throughout
- Extensive amenity package including private dining and wellness facilities
- Sustainable building systems reducing environmental impact
- Integration with Ward Village’s pedestrian network and public spaces
Mahana Ward Village
Status: Pre-construction sales
Developer: Howard Hughes Corporation
Units: 340 market-priced condominiums
The Mahana development will bring 340 new market-priced condominiums to Ward Village, continuing the neighborhood’s residential expansion. Currently in pre-construction phases, the project emphasizes connection to the surrounding community.
Key elements include:
- Distinctive architectural design complementing Ward Village’s aesthetic
- Varied unit types accommodating different household compositions
- Substantial amenity package focused on health and wellness
- Integration with Ward Village’s green spaces and retail environments
- Smart home technology throughout all residences
The Park Ward Village
Status: Planning phase
Developer: Howard Hughes Corporation
Units: 546 residences
Positioned as an anchoring element of Ward Village, The Park represents one of the most ambitious residential towers in the master plan. The 41-story luxury tower will be oriented around a central public green space, creating a landmark destination within the neighborhood.
The project will feature:
- Bold architectural design establishing a neighborhood landmark
- Mix of unit types from studios to three-bedroom residences
- Extensive amenity spaces prioritizing social interaction
- Direct connection to a new public park at the tower’s base
- Sustainable design targeting LEED certification
Other Notable Kakaako Developments
Several additional projects beyond the main master-planned communities are contributing to Kakaako’s transformation:
The Park At Keeaumoku
Status: Construction underway (broke ground January 2025)
Developer: Prospect Properties
Units: 384 mixed residential units
Located at the edge of Kakaako, The Park At Keeaumoku broke ground in January 2025 and is progressing smoothly. The development bridges Kakaako and Ala Moana districts, creating a transitional zone between these evolving neighborhoods.
Victoria Place in Ward Village
Status: Completed early 2025
Developer: Howard Hughes Corporation
Units: 349 luxury residences
Victoria Place stands as the most recently completed tower in Ward Village, with residents beginning to move in during early 2025. The luxury condominium offers unobstructed ocean views and has established a new benchmark for premium residential offerings in Honolulu.
Muse Honolulu in Ala Moana
Status: Pre-sales phase (construction beginning late 2025)
Developer: OliverMcMillan Pacific Rim
Units: 400 units
Though technically located in the adjacent Ala Moana district, the Muse Honolulu project directly impacts Kakaako’s development trajectory and connectivity. This project will bridge the two neighborhoods, creating a more cohesive urban environment.
The Future of Kakaako: Trends Emerging from These Developments
Examining these transformative projects reveals several key trends shaping Kakaako’s continued evolution:
1. Blending Density with Livability
The newest wave of development demonstrates how vertical density can coexist with human-scale experiences. Buildings soar higher while street-level experiences become more engaging and pedestrian-focused. This approach maximizes land use efficiency while creating vibrant community spaces.
2. Climate-Conscious Development
Every major project now incorporates significant sustainability features and climate adaptation measures. From energy production to water management, developments are designed with environmental performance as a core consideration rather than an afterthought.
3. Cultural Integration
Unlike earlier phases of development that sometimes felt disconnected from Hawaiian context, today’s projects actively incorporate cultural elements, consult with cultural practitioners, and create spaces for traditional practices. This shift represents a more mature approach to development that recognizes the importance of place and history.
4. Economic Diversification
The strategic emphasis on innovation infrastructure reflects Hawaii’s broader economic goals of reducing dependence on tourism while creating knowledge-economy opportunities for residents. Kakaako is positioning itself as the geographic center of this economic transition.
5. Public-Private Partnership
The most successful projects demonstrate sophisticated collaboration between government entities, private developers, community organizations, and cultural institutions. This multi-sector approach results in developments that balance commercial viability with public benefit.
Kakaako’s Ongoing Transformation
As 2025 unfolds, Kakaako continues its remarkable journey from industrial backwater to urban showcase. The major projects highlighted here—from infrastructure developments like the Koula Innovation Center and Ala Moana Transit Hub to residential towers including Kali’u, Kahuina, Waiakoa, and the numerous Ward Village developments—collectively represent the most significant evolution in the neighborhood’s history.
What distinguishes this phase of growth is its integrated approach to urban challenges. Rather than addressing housing, transportation, economic development, and public space as separate concerns, these projects demonstrate how thoughtful urban planning can address multiple needs simultaneously while creating vibrant, livable communities.
The simultaneous development of two major master-planned communities—Ward Village and Our Kaka’ako—has created a unique urban laboratory where different approaches to community building can be tested and refined. The result is a neighborhood with unprecedented diversity in housing options, from ultra-luxury oceanfront condominiums to affordable and workforce housing integrated throughout the district.
For residents and visitors alike, Kakaako offers a glimpse into a possible future for Hawaiian urban development—one that honors cultural heritage, embraces innovation, prioritizes sustainability, and creates authentic community spaces. As these projects reach completion throughout 2025 and beyond, they will solidify Kakaako’s position as one of the Pacific’s most dynamic urban neighborhoods and provide valuable lessons for coastal cities worldwide.
Perhaps most importantly, Kakaako’s transformation demonstrates how thoughtful development can create new urban environments while remaining distinctly Hawaiian—respecting the past while building toward a future that addresses the islands’ unique challenges and opportunities.
FAQs About Kakaako Development
Q: How is affordable housing being addressed in Kakaako’s development?
A: The Hawaii Community Development Authority mandates that 20% of residential units in Kakaako must qualify as affordable housing. Multiple projects are addressing this requirement directly, including Ulana Ward Village with nearly 700 reserved and workforce homes and portions of the Waiakoa development in Our Kaka’ako. Additionally, some developers fulfill requirements through contributions to affordable housing funds when not providing on-site affordable units.
Q: What is the difference between Ward Village and Our Kaka’ako?
A: Ward Village and Our Kaka’ako are the two primary master-planned communities within the broader Kakaako district. Ward Village is developed by Howard Hughes Corporation and occupies the eastern portion of Kakaako, featuring primarily high-rise luxury condominiums with some reserved housing. Our Kaka’ako is developed by Kamehameha Schools and occupies the western portion of the district, with a mix of mid-rise and high-rise buildings plus a stronger emphasis on creative spaces, local businesses, and cultural programming.
Q: When will these projects be completed?
A: The timeline varies significantly by project. Some developments like Victoria Place are already completed with residents moving in. Others like Aalii Tower and Ulana are nearing completion in 2025. Projects like Kahuina, Waiakoa, and The Park Ward Village are in various stages of planning and construction, with completion dates extending into 2026 and 2027. The larger infrastructure projects like the Kakaako Waterfront Revitalization are being implemented in phases throughout 2025 and beyond.
Q: What measures are being taken to protect against sea-level rise?
A: All new developments must incorporate sea-level rise projections into their design. The Kakaako Waterfront Revitalization specifically addresses this through living shorelines, elevated infrastructure, and flexible spaces that can adapt to changing conditions. Newer residential towers incorporate elevated electrical systems, water-resistant ground floors, and other resilience measures.
Q: How will these developments impact traffic in already-congested Honolulu?
A: The Ala Moana Transit Hub represents the most significant response to traffic concerns, connecting Kakaako to Honolulu’s rail system. Additionally, all new developments emphasize walkability, bicycle infrastructure, and reduced parking requirements to discourage car dependency. The Our Kaka’ako and Ward Village master plans both prioritize complete neighborhood design where daily needs can be met within walking distance.
Q: Are these projects displacing existing businesses or residents?
A: Most recent development has occurred on previously underutilized land or through repurposing industrial properties. The HCDA has implemented protections for legacy businesses and long-term residents, though community advocates continue to monitor gentrification concerns. Both Ward Village and Our Kaka’ako have programs supporting local businesses through favorable lease terms and incubator spaces.
Q: How can visitors experience Kakaako’s transformation?
A: The neighborhood offers self-guided walking tours highlighting architectural features, public art installations, and historical points of interest. The monthly “Kakaako Night Market” provides an immersive experience of the area’s evolving identity, featuring local vendors, performers, and community organizations. Additionally, both Ward Village and Our Kaka’ako host regular community events, art installations, and cultural programming open to the public.
Q: What’s the price range for condominiums in these new developments?
A: Kakaako offers the widest range of housing prices in urban Honolulu. Affordable and reserved housing units in projects like Ulana start below $400,000 for qualified buyers. Mid-market condominiums typically range from $600,000 to $1.2 million. Luxury units in oceanfront towers like Victoria Place and Kalae generally start around $1.5 million, with premium units exceeding $10 million for penthouses and specialty residences with the best views.
