In 2009 the Hawaii County Office of Housing and Community Development (OHCD) approached Media5 Architecture with a project they had been told was virtually impossible: to design a new 96-unit low-income rental and transitional housing project within a design schedule of just 90 days (rather the usual eight- to nine-month design schedule required by standard design practices), and with a professional services budget of less than half of what would be suggested by standard guidelines.

Media5 responded with a fast-track design process that overlaid team selection, design services contracting and fee negotiation, and design from initial concept to construction documents. Using this innovative methodology, Media5's team completed all design phases within the allotted 90-day period, while minimizing associated design costs through application of intense communications, development of interactive reviews, and use of advanced design technologies.

When completed, the Kaloko Housing Project will provide immediate shelter for homeless working families; long-term, affordable rentals for working families; and a warehouse that will create operational space for the Food Basket and Habitat for Humanity, as well as new job opportunities. This project is currently under construction and is scheduled to be completed in 2011.

Client Quote:

"Aloha Mel, Mahalo for making the trip to Kona for our ground breaking! And, mahalo for making the working relationship between architect and client so easy!! We are delighted that we chose Media5 Architecture!! From me personally to you, it has been a pleasure to work with you, your consultants and staff. I couldn’t be happier with the result."
- Steve Arnett, Housing Administrator, County of Hawaii Office of Housing & Community Development

Additional News and Information:

• Groundbreaking video and news article