Client:

NOAA

Location:

Kihei, Maui

Details:

Design of a Multi-use Building

Opened April 2009.

Features:
How does a public facility that is bursting at the seams transform itself into a spacious center for education? By laying the correct foundation. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) did just that with its Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. With the popularity of its many programs, the 1.13-acre campus had become a victim of its own success. Overcrowding threatened to restrict the capacity to meet the demand of the Sanctuary’s programs.

With the aid of a Master Facility Plan, prepared by Architects Pacific, Inc., the Sanctuary now features a giant classroom area. This provides the needed infrastructure for the Sanctuary to serve as an international gathering place for marine scientists, researchers, student education and the public at large.

Architects Pacific, Inc. wanted to emulate the existing architectural theme which had already been embraced by the Sanctuary. The resulting design is a distinctive, single-story structure done in authentic kama‘āina style. It is constructed of wood with cement pillars, accented by stone veneers at their base. It is strategically located for uninterrupted views throughout the campus.

Visitors’ eyes are immediately drawn to the sloping roof which is taller than the surrounding roofs, accentuating the building’s importance as a center for learning. The aesthetic value is further increased by expressive railings and a unique trellis over the ADA-accessible ramp. This invites and welcomes visitors through the building’s front doors.

Functionality
With the capacity to accommodate nearly 100 people for educational purposes, the multi-purpose building is fully equipped with a laboratory which allows for real-life demonstrations and experiential learning. There is a special housing area for stranded turtles equipped with refrigeration.

Architects Pacific, Inc. streamlined Sanctuary operations and efficiency by including administrative office space as well as a handy storage area specifically designed for tools. Rounding out the efficiency are general storage and restrooms.

Design Challenges
The building was designed to resist natural disasters. Because the Sanctuary is located along the oceanfront, the building is deliberately set back from the shore line. The foundation is elevated to clear the flood zone and is reinforced with driven piles to help support the building in the event of an earthquake.