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Our unique interactive form is designed to provide you with a likely range of costs for your Hawaii architectural, construction or remodeling project. Results will be e-mailed to you instantly, 24/7 with no waiting.

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Why This Site Exists

One couple in Kaimukī told us this:
"We wanted to renovate our home, but we didn’t even know who to talk to first. We just needed someone to tell us what was realistic."

That’s exactly why Home Planning Hawaii exists.

It’s not a sales site. It’s not a design firm directory. It’s a place for Honolulu homeowners to get clear, useful information about building or renovating — and to quickly get a sense of what their project might cost.

You can use the Instant Online Estimator any time, day or night. Whether you’re adding an ADU in Kailua, designing a new home in Mānoa, or just wondering what it would take to remodel your kitchen, the Estimator gives you a fast, no-pressure cost range — and connects you with a local architect who can help.

A Local Site Built Around Homeowners (Not Contractors)

If you’ve ever tried to start a home project in Honolulu, you know how many questions come up right away:

The problem isn’t just the process. It’s figuring out where to begin. That’s where this site helps most. It gives you a starting point — with clear language, real guidance, and a simple way to estimate costs before you commit to anything.

And when you do want expert help, you’ll hear directly from a licensed architect who knows how to design homes that actually work on this island — from the weather to the lot size to the building rules.

Get a Ballpark Price Before You Spend a Dime

Use the Instant Online Estimator – Available 24/7

Instant Estimate!

Most homeowners hesitate to reach out because they assume it’s going to be expensive just to talk to someone. The Instant Estimator changes that.

Just answer a few quick questions about your project — type of work, size, location — and you’ll immediately get a realistic estimate range.

No waiting.
No guessing.
No obligation.

Thinking about building on family land

Planning to add a second unit or ADU

Remodeling and want to see if it's even worth it

Budgeting for a future project but need a starting point

Once your estimate is generated, a local architect will follow up to answer any questions and talk next steps — only if you want to.

Services Behind the Scenes – What Honolulu Architects Actually Help With

Architect – Full-Service Design With Local Expertise

When a project gets more complex — like building a new home from the ground up or making major changes to your structure — working with a licensed architect gives you the full picture.

An architect doesn’t just draw plans. They think through how your home will live and breathe in its exact location. That means accounting for sun, shade, wind, slope, setbacks, views, materials, and how everything ties together over time.

Whether you’re designing a hillside home in Nuʻuanu or replacing an older structure in Kaimukī, architectural services can include:

Custom design that fits your lifestyle and site
Code-compliant drawings and permit-ready plans
Help working with structural engineers and surveyors
Guidance through the city permit process

This is the most complete level of service — ideal for homeowners who want a custom home or major renovation done right the first time, with someone who understands both design and construction on Oʻahu.

Architect

Drafting Service

Ready Plans That Get Approved

A lot of projects stall before they start because of one thing: incomplete or incorrect drawings.

Drafting is the technical part — turning your ideas into scaled drawings that are ready for review. This is what the city looks at when you apply for a permit, and what your builder uses to get to work.

When your drawings are done by someone who knows Honolulu’s permit process, you avoid delays and missteps. From roof pitches in Hawai‘i Kai to lot line setbacks in Palolo, the small stuff matters — and that’s what gets handled here.

Drafting Service

Building Designer

Simple Solutions for Everyday Projects

If you’re working on something straightforward — like adding a room, enclosing a patio, or turning a carport into a studio — a building designer might be the right fit.

Design here is practical and tailored to real-life use. That means:

Keeping costs under control
No Working with existing structures.
Making the best use of small or oddly shaped lots

One family in Pearl City used this route to add a quiet suite for their elderly parents. It wasn’t flashy, but it fit their needs perfectly — and stayed within budget.

Building Designer

Architectural Designer – Design That Lives With the Land

Some projects need more than just function — they need feel.
Architectural design on Oʻahu is about working with the natural surroundings. It’s about understanding airflow, sun patterns, and how your home opens up to the outdoors — not just what walls go where

In Waimānalo, one design focused on shaded lanais, sliding walls, and wide overhangs to catch breeze and block heat. These are the types of thoughtful choices that make a house feel like it belongs here — and make it easier to live in, year after year.

Architectural Designer

Different Neighborhoods, Different Design Challenges 

Why Local Knowledge Matters

Building in Honolulu isn’t one-size-fits-all. Every neighborhood has its own zoning rules, permit timelines, and terrain.

Kailua

Low-lying lots may require flood protection, even for small additions.

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Nuʻuanu / Mānoa

Extra moisture = material challenges. Ventilation matters.

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Ewa Beach

Bright sun, narrow lots, and heat retention make smart layout essential.

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Hawaiʻi Kai

HOA rules can affect design options and building timelines.

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Kaimukī / Pālolo

Steep slopes and older homes add hidden costs — a design pro can help you avoid them.

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This is why it’s so important to plan with someone who understands the specific area where you’re building or renovating.

FAQs for Honolulu Homeowners

Do I need an architect, or can I just use a contractor?

If you're just replacing finishes or updating cabinets, a contractor may be all you need.But if you're changing layouts, adding square footage, or building anything new — you’ll want architectural plans.And if you're not sure where your project falls? Use the estimator and get advice before making any big decisions.

How accurate is the Instant Estimate?

It’s meant to give you a ballpark range — not a fixed quote.But it’s based on current construction data from real local projects, so it’s much more helpful than guessing.

Will someone follow up with me?

Yes, if you’d like.After submitting the estimator, you’ll get a chance to talk to a local architect who can explain next steps, answer questions, or help with permitting and planning.

Start With Clarity, Not Confusion

The hardest part of any home project is knowing where to begin.

Home Planning Hawaii gives you a starting point:

A clear estimate.
A helpful conversation.
Local guidance from someone who understands how to design homes for this island.

Whether you’re dreaming of a new build, planning a quiet renovation, or just wondering what’s possible on your property — start with the Instant Online Estimator.

Get a clearer picture today. Then take the next step when you're ready.

"Our promise as a contractor is to build community value into every project while delivering professional expertise, exceptional customers service and quality construction."

Promises & Values

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Patrick Smith

CEO of Total

Testimonials

"The architect we hired is very knowledgeable, has a keen eye for design, and, above all, possesses the patience to listen to my ideas and ultimately brought them to life."

-Hawaii Kai, Hawaii Resident

"We got tons of helpful tips on Home Planning Hawaii and we also got connected to a wonderful Honolulu architect who was very easy to work with. We are are very pleased with the quality of work and the cost of the project."
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-Ewa Beach, Hawaii