Editor’s Notes: December 2024/January 2025

The gift of presence.

It’s hard to believe we’ve already reached the end of 2024. If, as the saying goes, “time flies when you’re having fun,” then perhaps the feeling that each month has swiftly come and gone indicates that 2024 was a total blast. But in this case — and with a bit of reflection — I feel the truer sense of the phrase is that time flies when you’re present to each moment, when you’re navigating a year’s worth of ups and downs with gratitude and optimism.

Our December/January issue is a big mahalo to the many people who have supported Hawaii Home + Remodeling throughout the year. Loyal advertisers and talented industry professionals continue to make it possible for us to bring great stories, photos, ideas and resources to our readers. It’s been a joy for me and our team to meet new people and to gain a deeper understanding of our local design, architecture and construction fields. Thank you to everyone who opened their homes and businesses to collaborate with us.

A few months ago, I received an email from Jim Cook, the founder of Hawaii Remodeling magazine. To hear from the man who started this endeavor back in 1981 was a huge honor — and to learn that we are on the same page when it comes to valuing relationships was very heartening for me. Times and technology may evolve — for a home renovation publication, change is a prevailing theme — but, like Jim in his day, serving the community is what we love to do. It’s the main reason we’re here.

There’s a lot to look forward to in 2025. I’ve gained tons of creative energy and fresh insights this past year that I look forward to parlaying into storytelling, marketing and more for our customers and readers. There’s always room to improve, upgrade and reimagine the spaces in which you live and work. May this issue find you with the same motivation to pay homage to the year past with thankfulness and to jump into 2025 embracing your boldest home design goals ever.

Cheers to the wonderful people and companies who helped bring together this Hawaii Home + Remodelingedition. Snuggle up on your favorite couch, pull up a cozy throw blanket (I’ve got my favorite one honoring the 2024 NBA champion Boston Celtics), and get inspired by the pages ahead.

Aloha,

Darlene Dela Cruz, Editor