University of Hawai’i, Ka ‘Imi ‘Ike, The Education Building

Associated Firms: SSFM International, Notkin Hawaii, Inc., Lincoln Scott, Inc., PBR Hawaii, Cost Engineering of Hawaii, Paladino & Co., Sparling, Roth Sheppard Architects/ AR7, ArcSpec, Absher Construction Co.

Design team:
John Ida, AIA; Lorrin Matsunaga, AIA (Partner in Charge); Kevin Miyamura, AIA; Jennifer Poe Poe, RA; Elaine Wong, AIA; Kyle Hamada

Ka ‘Imi ‘Ike, the Education Building, accommodates the growth of the Teacher Education component of the Social Science Division. Ka ‘Imi ‘Ike, which roughly translates to “the search for knowledge” in Hawaiian, provides expanded instructional offices, meeting spaces, and classrooms in a single facility. Its prime location and orientation on site enables the building to be visible from Ala ‘Ike Street and to enjoy ocean views of Pearl Harbor. The new building is intended to act as a beacon and focal point for the Leeward Community College campus.
The design uses daylight, trade winds and site orientation to create a high-performance building. The long façade facing south provides optimal daylighting and cross-ventilation. The long north façade also benefits from diffuse northern light. The short sides of the building facing east and west minimize solar gain from summer morning and evening sun. Passive design strategies—sun shading, tree shade, operable windows and a green roof—help reduce climatic impacts on the building envelope and the environment, and provide a healthier learning space for occupants.

Additional Information

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