Ferraro Choi has been recognized with both the Award of Merit and People’s Choice Award in the 2025 Design Awards from AIA-Honolulu. The winning project, the Daniel Kahikina Akaka VA Clinic in Kapolei, offers comprehensive services under one roof for the first time in the region. The clinic was built by Nan, Inc.
The 92,000-square-foot clinic is designed as a welcoming healing environment that honors Hawai‘i’s veterans and reflects the cultural and natural history of Kalaeloa. Drawing from traditional Hawaiian mo‘olelo (stories) and the area’s distinctive coral rock, native plants and light, the design integrates biophilic elements that promote well-being. Shaded exterior walkways, naturally daylit interiors, and gardens visible from waiting areas connect patients, staff, and visitors to nature.
A series of photovoltaic canopies, sleek planes of glass-encased solar cells, generate renewable energy and serve as roof structures over pedestrian walkways. Additional rooftop PV arrays and solar thermal systems provide up to 30% of the building’s hot water needs.
The facility’s high-performance design reduces reliance on artificial lighting, with daylighting in lobbies, sub-waiting areas, and corridors. Lighting control systems, premium-efficiency HVAC with variable speed drives, and energy modeling to meet ASHRAE 90.1 standards all contribute to reduced energy costs and environmental impact.
