Brightworks, Sustainability Advisor, Sep '08

The former Moloka’i Electric Plant is situated at the heart of Kaunakakai on a 1.5-acre site on the Island of Moloka'i in Hawaii. The original purpose of the facility was to provide electricity for the island of Moloka’i. Over time, however, it left the site extremely contaminated and an eyesore in the small town. Claiming to be the last 'Real Hawaii Island' and with the highest unemployment rate in the state, the community solicited our help to create a rehabilitation plan for this site and reintroduce employment opportunities in this area through native arts and crafts.

I analyzed the site and created plans for redevelopment and restoration of the site. I created all of the graphics show in this portfolio and were presented to the client/community. We also developed a 30 page comprehensive report outlining opportunities, liabilities, applicable case studies and design strategies. 

Our integrated process gave birth to ideas which would reflect Hawaiian values for community and
stimulate environmental protection. As the community works to restore the site and builds a center
small business incubator, the project will stimulate pride in Moloka’i provide a teaching tool of sustainable ways of working and living.