Wabi-Sabi Style Hawaii Kitchen

A Wabi-Sabi Inspired Kitchen Transformation

Ohana Building Supply’s most recent kitchen remodel in Kahala embraces the ever-popular design trend known as “Wabi-Sabi.” Originating in Japan, Wabi-Sabi centers on using natural materials, textural contrast, muted colors, asymmetry, and negative space to create highly functional spaces that feel authentic and timeless. Using their in-stock Rustic Oak cabinetry paired with stunning Taj Duna stone, Ohana was able to cost-effectively and faithfully execute this homeowner’s dream kitchen.

The original space is completely unrecognizable. The dated floor tiles were replaced with warm oak luxury vinyl plank flooring, while the Canec ceiling was gutted and redone with smooth drywall and thoughtfully placed recessed lighting. A massive peninsula island reorganizes the once-clumsy layout, creating significantly more space to cook and gather. An extra-wide 42” refrigerator, built-in oven and microwave combo, induction cooktop, and dedicated vented hood complete the hardware upgrades, making this kitchen ready for everything from daily meals to holiday feasts. 

Perhaps most notable about this remodel are the stunning Taj Duna countertops. Ohana Building Supply’s in-house stone team expertly fabricated the material to create a full-height backsplash spanning from the countertop surface to the ceiling. The result is an incredible first impression when entering the kitchen that showcases the beautiful natural veining of the stone while making the wall surfaces significantly easier to clean after cooking.

Following the Wabi-Sabi philosophy, Ohana’s popular frameless Rustic Oak cabinets were selected to bring additional natural texture to the space. Featuring ¾” plywood boxes and standard soft-close hardware, these cabinets are among the highest quality available on the island and are built to last decades instead of years. The realistic oak texture of the cabinet doors is as durable as it appears, with PVC edge banding and double lamination for additional water resistance.

A perfect design philosophy for island homes, visit Ohana Building Supply’s local showrooms today to design your own Wabi-Sabi-inspired kitchen.