Is Kahala Ready for High Style Homes?

I am always on the lookout for stylish homes coming on the market here in Kahala. Just found a great redo that is nothing if not stylish. I keep reading how gray is the new beige. Gorgeous lofts in New York, beach houses in LA, apartments in Paris – all gray. I even see it in the new multi-million dollar condos going up in urban Honolulu. The effect is stunning, but I never thought I’d see it in Kahala. Gray just doesn’t scream the tropics.

Dramatic Entry with Commercial Grade Double Doors, Coral, and Lava Rock (MLS# 201406459)

Ultimate Modern Luxury

Kahala has some lovely homes, but many are dated and staid. Homes here always seem a decade or two behind. Then I walked into a newly listed house at 4510 Aukai here in Kahala and, well, my jaw dropped – this fabulous redo was all gray, and it worked! It starts before you even get inside with the dramatic entry.

Great Room with designer furnishings. Brand New Carpet. Sliders.

The interior rooms are all grand in scale, and all open to the interior courtyard and pool. The kitchen, dining area, and living area all flow, forming one large great room. The furniture, included in the sales price, was chosen by the seller to compliment the room both in scale and color.

Warming up the room and adding to the drama is a long “no heat” contemporary fireplace. Pattern is limited to a few throw pillows. Walls roll back and let the outdoors in, with the blue of the pool and the green tropical foliage being the only “color” other than the artwork.

Dream Kitchen! Fully equipped with Thermadore Appliances included

The kitchen continues the theme of gray, but adds in warm midtone wood cabinetry to soften it. The striking black and silver granite counter was a great choice. There is something comforting about this kitchen despite its high style. The juxtaposition of the more traditional wood and the sleek granite and stainless is a trend I’d like to see more of. Chandeliers rather than can lights or pendents are also a great touch. The whole effect is one of a jewel box.

The bedrooms are all towards the back, away from the street. Guest bedrooms are ample and as stylish as the rest of the home. Here the designer was a little more playful with each room getting a bright accent color. One a sunny yellow, another a deep navy blue, and one a bright orange. Again, the baths echo the kitchen with the silver and black granite anchored by the warmer wood cabinetry.

Stunning Master Suite with every accommodation

Finally, the entire second story is devoted to the master suite. With a sitting room, ample closets, and a huge spa-like master bath, it’s more a retreat than a suite. Like the kitchen, the gray tones are set off by select wood furnishings all in the same warm midtone.

For Distinctive Home Buyers

I am showing this home to two distinct sets of clients. For those looking for a contemporary home in the latest style, it’s a must see. I’m also working with some architects and interior designers who see the opportunity a rising real estate market affords them. Yes, the luxury flip is back. I’ve seen a few here in Kahala and a couple over in Kailua and Lanikai. I’m curious to see how quickly this one sells. Is Honolulu ready for high style?

PS. Before the blog could be published the sellers accepted an offer, so I guess that answers my question. Kahala is ready for high style! And as far as flipping, the seller purchased it for $2,500,000 in November of 2013 and now, in less than two months on the market priced at $5.5 million, they have an accepted offer. Stay tuned for how much the sales price ultimately is. I’m guessing not too far off asking.

Gallery of Kahala Homes with Style for Sale.