International Hawaiian architecture

the hawaiʻi state capitol. photo taken punchbowl.

the hawaiʻi state capitol centerpiece of honolulu s collection of buildings in hawaiian international style of architecture. developed in 1920s , popularized in 1960s, bauhaus architecture became widespread trend throughout world. american form of bauhaus architecture called international style accepted in hawaiʻi , became trend downtown honolulu office buildings. bauhaus employed classical principles in simplified forms without use of heavy ornamentation. characteristic of bauhaus dull colors white, gray, beige , black , embraced open floor plans.

bauhaus became inspiration hawaiʻi governor john a. burns in plans construct new capitol building state. hawaiʻi state capitol true traditions of bauhaus in use of clean lines, simple geometric shapes, pervasive use of black , gray of concrete , openness of entire structure. other architectural imports hawaiʻi, bauhaus transformed uniquely hawaiian style addition of several treatments.

hawaiian international architecture used precious indigenous koa wood doors , furnishings , designs employed symbolism of natural hawaiian phenomena. capitol dome, example, designed reflect volcanic origins of hawaiian islands. beneath dome mosaic tadashi sato representing changing colors of hawaiian coastal waters. tied ocean theme, capitol surrounded water hawaiian islands surrounded. main space of capitol building open environment entrances facing sea , mountain, respectively. architects: belt, lemmon & low (architects hawaii ltd.) , john carl warnecke