Editor’s Notes: October/November 2024
Come to the table.
While sitting with Karen Nakamura, Hinano Nahinu, photographer Aaron Yoshino and our Hawaii Home + Remodeling team at Pacific Source on Sept. 9, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. We had just wrapped our cover shoot and were taking a quick breather before going our separate ways. Gathered around one of the display tables in the Pacific Source showroom, it was humbling to be among such an intelligent, talented and gracious group of people who have dedicated themselves to their crafts and communities.
I learned early in my journalism career that the moments after an interview or photo shoot shouldn’t be taken for granted. When the cameras and notebooks are put away, unofficial talk-story sessions often provide the best opportunities to get to know those you are working with. Hinano shared insights about the popular new materials spotlighted in the kitchen vignette where we took photos of her and Karen. I discovered that Karen and I have mutual church connections from my previous job at the Hawaii Catholic Herald newspaper. We all had a good laugh that Karen and Hinano coincidentally wore complementary colors that tied back to the dark blue and bright green in the BIA-Hawaii logo.
Our October/November issue covers a lot of ground: Architecture Month, Kitchen & Bath Month, and National Women’s Small Business Month. But perhaps the common thread weaving all our stories and special sections together is the notion of bringing your ideas, passion, enthusiasm and collaborative spirit to the table. From seasoned industry professionals to new generations of entrepreneurs, designers, and trade specialists, many hands make light work in the quest to build a better collective home in Hawaii.
I hope you pick up this edition of Hawaii Home + Remodeling with eagerness to update your spaces for the season ahead. We’ve got inspiration for everything from indoor-outdoor living to bathroom remodeling, along with a great gift book and furnishings if you’re shopping early for the holidays. May you gather with friends and family around a full table of food and fun as you celebrate everything that fall has to offer and more.
Aloha,
Darlene Dela Cruz, Editor
