RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION
When Renovations Make Sense
Pauahi Kupuna Hale avoids demolition as Chinatown affordable senior housing project opts for tasteful upgrades instead BY PAULA BENDER
W hen residents of Pauahi Kupuna Hale in Chinatown attended a rededication ceremony for their apartment building in July, guest speakers described something construction industry profession- als don’t hear about that much — the virtues of renovating a building, instead of tearing down and rebuilding it. The decision makes solid ecological sense here in Hawai‘i, as renovations often help conserve resources. Originally built in 1986, Pauahi Kupuna Hale offers 12 studios and 35 one-bedroom apartments on six floors, with an 8- to 10-year waiting list for units. The typical resident here is 80 years old, with an average income of $700 a month from Social Security. Rent is subsidized by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development, so most residents pay just $200 a month, or 30 percent of their income. ESTABLISHING A LOCAL CONNECTION When nonprofit developer Retirement Housing Federation (RHF) secured Unlimited Construction
but preserv- ing what we have today can keep people housed,” he says.
Renovations completed include new lighting, ceiling fans and energy-efficient appliances in each of the renovated kitchens, step-in shower stalls to replace bathtubs, new windows and vinyl plank and tile flooring. A second elevator is a welcome addition, as there was only one to service residents since the building was first built — and that one originally ran for years off 16 car batteries! Unlimited also oversaw work on PKH’s infrastructure, landscaping and outdoor lighting. An additional bonus for low- income senior residents living in the building at the corner of Pauahi and River streets is that small pets, like fish and birds, are welcome. Small dogs and cats are also allowed, but require a pet deposit and include limits on number, size and breed. Next door to PKH is a senior center that offers classes for residents who also actively participate in RHF’s Project H.A.N.D.S. (Helping Angels National Donated Support). The ADDED PERKS KEEP RESIDENTS HAPPY program invites residents and staff to partner with local organizations to donate homemade items such as blan- kets, hats and sweaters, as well as stuff backpacks for keiki headed back to school or supply food and toiletries for those in need.
PHOTO BY JASON GENEGABUS
PKH is also a smoke-free commu- nity, and in line with RHF’s health- focused policies, apartments are designed to include safety features, such as grab bars and walk-in showers in bathrooms. One-bedroom apart- ment amenities include fire and smoke detectors, an emergency call system and living-dining areas. Kitchens were also renovated and include new cabinets, countertops, fresh paint and energy-efficient refrig- erators. Windows front and back have new treatments and allow for the opti- mal flow of fresh breezes throughout. New carpeting completes the reno- vations for each living space, while an on-site laundry room, personal mailboxes, secure entry and tropical gardens round out the amenities. “With a safe place to live, there are fewer ER visits,
and lives are more stable,” says Kalani Redmayne, CEO of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Hawaii. Along with PKH, RHF offers another affordable apart-
Services Inc. as general contrac- tor for the $8.6
million renovation at PKH, company president and CEO Stuart Hartman said
Kalani Redmayne
utilizing the local company on this project was in align- ment with his organization’s mission, which hasn’t changed in 37 years. “Affordable housing is important, Stuart Hartman
ment building for seniors and those with disabilities in Pawa‘a at the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Apartments, 1605 Philip St. That building includes 34 apartments, but it, too, currently has a waiting list.
52 | BUILDING INDUSTRY HAWAII | OCTOBER 2023
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