Residential Wonders
A new book explores limitless possibilities in local architecture.
In honor of Architecture Month in October, Hawaii Home + Remodeling caught up with noted local architect Peter Vincent for a preview of his latest project, a freshly published monograph titled “Island Homes: Casual Elegance in Design.” As managing partner of his namesake firm, Vincent has been the visionary behind some of the Islands’ most beautiful properties. “Island Homes” is a compilation of vibrant images and thoughtful stories behind 21 built works by Peter Vincent Architects; available for preorder on Amazon, the book is a great gift for architecture aficionados. Here, Vincent shares his reflections on Island life and residential design.
What does “home in Hawaii” mean to you?
To me, a “house” is simply a structure, while a “home” is something deeply personal, tailored to the specific needs of an individual, family or even a business. In Hawaii, a thoughtfully designed home goes beyond aesthetics — it honors our distinct culture, embraces the natural beauty of the environment and meets the needs of its inhabitants. It’s not about a particular style; it’s about creating a true sense of place, or as we say, a home with mana.
How do you incorporate that into PVA’s work?
Every PVA project is unique, reflecting our commitment to listening to each client’s goals and desires. We take the time to deeply understand each site’s unique qualities, blending these insights into a cohesive design concept. From the big picture to the finest details, we ensure that every element comes together seamlessly.
What inspired you to create the “Island Homes” book?
While many of our nonresidential projects are accessible to the public, our residential work is typically private, experienced only by the owners, their families and close friends. I wanted to share some of these unique homes with a broader audience. Unlike most architectural coffee-table books, which focus primarily on the finished work, this book delves into the creative process behind each project. I believe readers will find the unique stories in “Island Homes” just as engaging as the designs themselves.
Editor’s Note: This article has been slightly modified from the original print version for optimal online reading. To view the full print story, pick up your copy of Hawaii Home + Remodeling at one of our partner locations.
