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The Best Custom Home Builders in Honolulu, Hawaii

9 Min Read
Photo for Longhouse Design + Build

Set against Hawaii’s breathtaking landscapes, Honolulu stands as a unique blend of tropical paradise and vibrant urban life. Known for its pristine beaches, cultural richness, and that sense of aloha that permeates the air, Honolulu beckons residents to embrace the beauty of island living. If you’re considering building your dream home in this Pacific gem, you’ll want a team of custom home builders who can make your vision a reality.

In our quest to uncover the best in the business, we’ve meticulously curated a list of the finest custom home builders in Honolulu. After a thorough examination of their portfolios, expertise, client testimonials, and industry accolades, we found the builders who have proven themselves as masters of their craft. Whether you envision a beachfront retreat, a modern oasis, or a traditional Hawaiian abode, the builders on our list are primed to bring your bespoke vision to life with skill and artistry.


Longhouse Design + Build

1100 Alakea Street, Suite 300, Honolulu, HI 96813

Longhouse Design + Build, a Honolulu-based collaboration between Long and Associates Architects & Interiors and Longhouse Development, LLC, is a multi-disciplinary force in luxury residential architecture, development, and construction throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Established in 1980 by licensed Architect Jeffrey T. Long, the firm evolved into Longhouse Design+Build in 2016, emphasizing a unified workflow to deliver custom homes seamlessly.

With a rich legacy in oceanfront luxury residences, the Longhouse brand integrates award-winning designs with construction expertise. The firm’s commitment to a collaborative approach addresses challenges inherent in design and construction, ensuring a singular point of responsibility. Affiliated with the Building Industry Association of Hawaii, Longhouse Design+Build’s portfolio spans diverse styles from traditional to contemporary Hawaiian.

Led by Jeffrey Long, AIA, the firm’s founding Principal, Longhouse Design+Build includes a talented team dedicated to infusing innovation, meaning, and artistry into every project. Their diverse designs and craftsmanship have earned plenty of accolades, including the 2017 BIA Renaissance Grand Award for Outdoor Living. As a design-driven, Architect-led entity, Longhouse Design+Build combines passion and expertise to create distinctive, timeless spaces.


Mokulua “High Performance Builder”

96743, 1156 Lunaapono Place, Kailua, HI 96734

Mokulua, known as the “High-Performance Builder,” is a fully licensed, insured, and bonded general contracting firm in Kailua, O’ahu. Its mission revolves around fostering the construction of efficient, healthy, and sustainable homes. The firm is committed to meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship and a strategic design process to align with clients’ time, target, and budget considerations.

Affiliated with LEED for Homes Green Rater/Quality Assurance Designee (QAD), Mokulua has earned plenty of accolades, including the 2020 USGBC Hawaii’s Sustainability Award from AIA. The firm’s work has also been featured in Architect Magazine and Green Magazine.

Guided by Principal Michael Fairall, with over 25 years of diverse experience in residential and commercial construction, Mokulua seamlessly integrates project efficiency with sustainable building practices. The result is successful projects and an increased focus on energy efficiency, environmental responsibility, indoor air quality, and client education. The firm remains committed to smarter, greener building practices.


ATN Construction

2045 Lauwiliwili Street, Unit 201, Kapolei, HI 96707

ATN Construction approaches every project with the warmth of Ohana, treating each client like a valued member. This commitment to satisfaction extends beyond the outcome, encompassing a seamless work process and fostering a positive “can do” atmosphere. Renovations, while exciting, can also be challenging, and the firm goes the extra mile to prioritize its client’s peace of mind throughout.

Founded with the vision of enhancing homes and offices across Hawaii Nei, ATN Construction is dedicated to transforming diverse neighborhoods with professional expertise. Its services adhere to industry standards and it delivers quality craftsmanship at a reasonable cost. As a trusted partner, it guarantees meticulous work from the initial construction phase to the project’s final turnover.

Affiliated with the Building Industry Association of Hawaii, ATN Construction has earned plenty of industry recognition, including the 2021 HHRM Readers Choice Award. The firm’s work has also been featured in Remodeling Magazine. Principals Richie and Tiffany Breux, founders of ATN Construction, have embodied a passion for revitalizing Hawaii’s construction landscape since 2010. ATN has evolved into a trusted Island favorite from humble beginnings, driven by a commitment to excellence and community service.


Barker Kappelle Construction, LLC

970 N Kalaheo Avenue, Suite A-306, Kailua, HI 96734

Barker Kappelle Construction, LLC, an esteemed construction firm based in Hawaii, boasts a rich legacy of crafting quality homes for over a decade. Founded in 2006 by Phil Barker and Brett Kappelle, the company holds licenses and is insured in the state, a reflection of its commitment to excellence. Specializing in residential additions, remodels, new construction, and commercial contracting, BKC deploys a design-build strategy, collaborating seamlessly with architects to streamline the construction process and guarantee client satisfaction. As a Certified Green Professional, the firm prioritizes constructing energy-efficient homes with minimal environmental impact.

Barker Kappelle is distinguished by its numerous industry affiliations, including the Building Industry Association of Hawaii. The firm’s work has received plenty of awards, including the 2018 BIA Grand & Overall Grand Award. Featured in Hawaii Home + Remodeling Magazine, the firm upholds the highest ethical standards.

Founded on principles of superb quality workmanship and outstanding customer service, Barker Kappelle Construction—under the visionary leadership of Phil Barker and Brett Kappelle—stands as a beacon of innovation and commitment within the construction and design community.


Atlas Construction

2222 Kamehameha Highway, Honolulu, HI 96819

Atlas Construction—an award-winning family-owned general contractor in Hawaii—has four generations of experience building residential homes across the islands. Under the leadership of owner Bruce Kim, who has nearly 20 years of experience, Atlas has crafted hundreds of homes.

With a deep understanding of the unique challenges in Hawaii’s home building market, Atlas aims to simplify the construction and renovation process. The company strives to alleviate stress for homeowners, guiding them seamlessly from project initiation to the completion of their dream homes. Recognizing that many clients are embarking on their first construction project, Atlas works hard to create a memorable experience for current and future generations.

The firm won the 2019 Hawaii Home + Remodeling Readers Choice Awards. The firm’s success is a testament to Bruce Kim’s 26 years in the industry—he embodies a mission of exceptional customer service and fair dealings. As a fourth-generation builder in Hawaii, his journey from laborer to carpenter reflects a commitment to understanding every facet of the construction industry, reshaping perceptions of contractors along the way.


HK Construction

2046 S King Street, Honolulu, HI 96826

HK Construction operates as a comprehensive design-build contractor. What sets it apart is the simplicity it brings to each project — it handles everything from the initial design phase to the moment the client steps into the completed home. Juggling multiple services is a thing of the past; it’s all seamlessly managed in one place.

From dream and drawing board to the day the client moves in, HK Construction is their partner. Its cost-effective home designers provide personalized planning services, eliminating the need for a separate architect. The studio takes care of every detail, from securing the foundation to addressing drainage concerns, ensuring the homeowner’s vision for a perfect Hawaii home becomes a reality for them and their family. With affiliations with the Building Industry Association of Hawaii, HK Construction stands as a reliable partner for its client’s home construction journey. 


Graham Builders

1144 Young Street, Honolulu, HI 96814

Graham Builders, Hawaii’s seasoned design and build company, has dedicated nearly three decades to creating enduring homes. Partnering closely with families, the firm guides them through the design-build journey, employing seasoned professionals and in-house designers. Uniquely equipped to shape Homes for Life, Graham Builders collaborates with clients, transforming dreams into reality. A trailblazer in multigenerational and aging-in-place design, it extends expertise to modify homes for lifelong living.

Affiliated with the Better Business Bureau, Graham Builders is also an award-winning firm, securing the 2018 People’s Choice Award for Multigenerational Home Builder. As recognized in a feature in Hawaii Home + Remodeling Magazine, the firm’s commitment transcends construction, embodying community service. 

Founded by Danny Graham in 1990, a visionary leader, Graham Builders seamlessly transitioned leadership to Evan Fujimoto in 2010. Graham’s legacy resonates in the firm’s commitment to community service. His own service to the industry includes a term as the 44th president of the Building Industry Association. A journey with Graham Builders isn’t just about construction; it’s a collaborative voyage to lasting homes.


Pacific Precision Builders, Inc.

521 Ala Moana Boulevard, # 113, Honolulu, HI 96813

Pacific Precision Builders (PPBI) is a licensed and insured general contracting firm based in Honolulu. Functioning as a design + build + improve enterprise, it specializes in residential new construction, remodels, additions, and commercial spaces.

Embracing a client-centric approach, it seamlessly navigates designers and architects, understanding their aesthetic, functionality, budgetary, and scheduling desires while effectively managing and directing contributors to meet those needs. The company aims to capture and interpret the client’s vision through architectural and interior design, providing unparalleled design solutions with thoughtfulness, creativity, and dedication.

A commitment to improving the quality of people’s lives is evident in the firm’s projects as well as its philanthropy. The company works with integrity, striving to improve, support, nurture, and serve the community, loyal customers, partners, and employees. The firm’s continued growth and success can be attributed to the team’s passion for innovation, sustainability, and humanity. Affiliated with the National Association of Home Builders and the National Kitchen and Bath Association, Pacific Precision Builders is anchored in a legacy of 25 years of experience, exemplified by its principal, Jon Mosher.


Author

  • Blaine has served as Editor at DC Architects for six years, drawing from over ten years of experience in construction and real estate. His comprehensive understanding spans commercial construction, architecture, and home builds, cultivated through diverse roles in the industry. With four years at BuildZoom and a background as a licensed real estate agent, Blaine possesses a unique perspective that enriches his editorial work. His dedication to delivering informative content is underscored by his extensive tenure in the field, ensuring that readers receive valuable insights into the dynamic world of construction and home design. Expertise: Commercial Construction, Commercial Remodeling, Home Design and Build Key Highlights: Over 6 years of experience writing and editing in the construction space, Editor at DC Architects, Previous experience at BuildZoom and Keller Williams Realty Education: Ohio University, Bachelor of Science in Human and Consumer Science - Minor in Business, 120+ Hours of New Jersey Real Estate Education, 120+ Hours of Arizona Real Estate Education

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