HBA San Francisco has completed the renovation of Fairmont Orchid, a 540-room oceanfront resort on the Big Island of Hawai’i.
Situated where the black lava fields of the Kohala Coast meet the turquoise waters of Pauoa Bay, the redesign is rooted in contrast, embracing the interplay between fire and water.
Visual and material juxtapositions, inspired by the resort’s natural palette, parallel the ebb and flow of Hawai’i’s creation story, with flowing organic curves combining with angular lines and geometric patterns to evoke a landscape shaped by ancient geological forces.
Strategic alternations of dark and light elements reflect the dialogue between jet-black lava rock and white coral stone, add depth to the exterior.
“This renovation represents more than a visual refresh – it is a reconnection to the land’s mana, its spiritual energy,” says HBA San Francisco Associate Jacob Royster. “Through thoughtful design and reverence for place, we’ve created an experience that is both timeless and transformative, leaving guests feeling grounded, inspired, and forever connected to the Spirit of Hawai’i.”
Conceived to strike a balance between intimacy and grandeur, the public spaces now set the tone for a refined and welcoming arrival across the porte-cochère, lobby, circulation paths and event areas.
Expansive framed views of the Pacific serve as dramatic backdrops, while sculptural lighting inspired by natural forms provide layered illumination, and residential-style vignettes invite gathering and reflection.
The interiors are anchored by rich, tactile materials, including lava-like stone, carved and natural woods and woven fibres. Nuanced shifts in light, sheen and texture across surfaces mirror the island’s atmospheric drama, while custom furnishings – low, curved and textural – evoke the fluidity of the surrounding landscape. Elemental tones of volcanic earth, sun-bleached coral and windswept flora add subtle warmth to the nature-inspired interiors.
Meanwhile, dynamic artwork lends a contemporary voice. Abstract and organic motifs speak to the island’s marine life, celestial skies and storytelling traditions through oceanic blues and shimmering gold.
Informed by the island’s organic textures and calming hues, each guestroom features curated furnishings, subtle patterns and immersive materiality. Details include relaxed lounge seating, complete with pull-up tables and ottomans, and custom wood furnishings with fluted detailing and carved accents, finished in warm, sun-washed tones evocative of driftwood and volcanic stone.
“We wove in moments of surprise and delight throughout the guest rooms to offer joyful, unexpected pops of colour within the otherwise neutral palette,” comments HBA San Francisco Senior Project Designer Alecia Enriquez-Boyd. “Opening drawers reveal soft blush-pink interiors. Behind the media panel, a richly textured wallcovering shimmers when touched by dappled light, adding a quiet, poetic dimension to the space.”
