This month guests can once more move through the tranquil spaces of the Halekulani and lounge by the blue-tiled pool. The House Without a Key will allow them to take in the stunning Hawaiian sunset from the House Without a Key.
Although the famous Waikiki resort was closed last spring due to the pandemic, its staff have not been idle. The property received a refreshing and, to quote Peter Shaindlin (COO of Halekulani Corp.), a thoughtful one that included property renovations but also guest enrichment.
He said, "It's still the same lovable Halekulani but it's got an spark to it."
The renovations have extended to rewiring of the building to support all guests' digital connections. This trend was a big hit during Covid, when "contactless” became the new buzzword.
Shaindlin stated, "It struck me some months ago that an affluent traveler had always social distanced," even before Covid. "A first-class seat. What is the goal? You need space. A cabana in a pool. They desire privacy.
"What we discovered was that there was more demand for these services after the renovation. It gives them another option to not see anyone if they wish." They don't even need to use the hotel telephone.
The Halekulani, however, is leaning in to its high-touch ways.
A rendering of the refreshed room at Waikiki’s Halekulani. Photo credit: Courtesy Halekulani
Promoting "Inspired Living"
New and innovative ways will be available for guests to connect with Hawaii and the Halekulani.
Because of the Halekulani’s connections to cultural institutions, guests are able to access places beyond the hotel's porta cochere. They have free access to the Bishop Museum, Honolulu Museum of Art, and Iolani palace.
Inspired Living is a new program that allows maestros to come directly to guests' suites. For example, take a partnership with Honolulu Symphony Orchestra. Shaindlin stated, "If you were a musician, let's just say you play a violin, we can arrange to have a violinist from symphony come hang for an entire hour." "You can talk music or they can play for your, or you can both play together."
This doesn't only concern fine arts. Another example is to go to the beach just outside the hotel to take a lesson with a waterman. A waterman is a person who has a deep connection with Hawaii's waters. Shaindlin stated, "They talk about reconnecting with the sea." "Not as a sport, but as a cultural pastime."
In the coming weeks, more information will be available about the program.
Light, bright colors
Shaindlin stated that the Halekulani partnered with a company that is experienced in designing unique, one-of-a kind hotels for the redo.
The refurbishment preserves several of its distinctive calling cards. The distinctive Dickey roof is the roof's pitched roof. Another feature is the use of light colors, "seven shades" of white is what it is called. This contrasts with the blues and sky of the ocean and the greens on the grounds. According to the hotel, elements of warmth and texture will be added such as wood panels and cabinetry or textured wall coverings.
The hotel's open-air feel is not changing. The hotel's spacious feel is a result of the combination of large lawns, shaded walkways, and private lanais. This aspect may be particularly important in this age of Covid.
Shaindlin stated that the extensive collection of Hawaiian art at the hotel has been cataloged, updated, and re-curated. New artwork will also be acquired. The works will be linked to a QR reader so guests can view the history and description of each piece.
Return to House without a Key
The House Without a Key restaurant is reopening for entertainment, limited beverages, and appetizers on Fridays, Saturdays, and with some new touches. (The full restaurant reopens Nov. 23).
The stunning views aside, guests can enjoy the Halekulani's hospitality at the oceanfront, alfresco lounge, and venue for live Hawaiian music and dining.
Shaded bar seating was added along with an exhibition-style, glass kitchen and contemporary furnishings.
House Without a Key is currently working on a new cocktail menu, but the classics such as the Mai Tai will not be changed.
