Construction is well underway on the all new Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, at Ko Olina, Hawai`i.
Listener CGOhana, who lives in Hawaii, was kind enough to share these photos and videos of the construction progress.
Celebrating the elegance and history of Hawai`i, the architecture and interior design of the resort takes its inspiration from Hawaiian culture. Inside and out, simplicity, fine materials and attention-to-detail reflect the layers of refined thinking that characterize Hawaiian art. The unique architecture evokes Hawaiian villages in a modern, awe-inspiring interpretation. At the Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, ancient meets modern in a way that will make you marvel at the natural beauty and sophisticated elegance. A large volcanic rock passes from outside to inside the glass lobby wall. This reverence for nature is seen throughout, with volcanic stone columns that line the hallway, works of art perched in the crowns of lava rock rising from the lobby floor, and the lavish use of wood. Pools of water traverse the lobby, one tranquil and filled with lilies, the other rocky and wild, rushing out towards the sea. A dramatic, pitched-beam ceiling soars upward, enhancing the open-air ambiance created by walls of glass. Torch lights and calabash-inspired bowl lamps bring warmth to the interiors. Rooms are appointed with lustrous wood and Hawaiian elements, from the geometric patterns inspired by kapa cloth (textiles made from tree bark) to the craftsmanship you encounter at every turn.
The resort will feature 360 hotel rooms and 481 two-bedroom-equivalent Disney Vacation Club villas, and is scheduled to open its first phase in fall 2011. Until then, you can get more information at the official web site, DisneyAulani.com.
Video and photos courtesy of CGOhana
Concept renderings from Disney Parks
I don’t know about you, but I am definitely sensing a “research trip” to Hawai`i in late 2011! Who’s with me?
I can’t even explain how excited we are about Aulani! Sami & I have always wanted to go to Hawaii, and can’t wait to check this resort out. Thanks for the update!!
We may have a wedding to attend in Hawaii, and are hoping that they plan it after the opeing of Aulani, so we can take our own “research trip”!!! Would love to visit this new resort.
I totally agree that research is needed. As a professional travel agent I need first hand knowledge to help my clients. It looks wonderful and I really can’t wait. It’s a combination of things I really love. Disney and Hawaii.