Famed for its crescent beach with a backdrop of high-rise hotels, there’s no better place to live than Honolulu, Hawaii. Many families are attracted to moving to the south shore neighborhood, a central location for dining, shopping, and colorful nightlife. Located near the city, multifamily living is a convenient solution for people who work in the middle of it all or for those who want to enjoy what the island has to offer. As more people decide to pursue island life, developers are on the lookout for reputable contractors to keep up with demand.
We’ve compiled a list of ten contractors in the area who have the experience, the portfolio, and the recognition when it comes to multifamily and commercial construction. Among the highest-rated firms in the state, here are the best multifamily contractors in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Arita-Poulson General Contracting LLC
5 Sand Island Access Road, Honolulu, HI 96819
For more than 30 years, Arita-Paulson General Contracting LLC (APGC) has provided construction services throughout the entire state of Hawaii. Built upon integrity, teamwork, and performance, APGC has a diverse clientele who are consistently satisfied with the firm’s results. Because of its broad scope of projects and competitive pricing, APGC is known as one of the top contractors on the islands.
The firm’s award-winning team guides its clients through every stage of the project from brainstorming to its flawless finish. The firm’s versatile projects make it one of the go-to contractors for commercial construction in Honolulu. APGC has completed retail, restaurant, resort, and multifamily housing projects. Its services include pre-construction, general contracting, and construction management. With hundreds of completed projects to its name, APGC was named one of the Building Industry Hawaii Top 25 Contractors.
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A prime example of its expertise in the multifamily industry is the Luana Garden Villas. Located on Maui’s west coast, the luxury condominium complex consists of 72 three-bedroom villas complete with private enclosed garages. Each villa has a spacious interior living space with high-end finishes and a floorplan that caters to the active Hawaiian lifestyle. APGC didn’t forget about the beautiful landscape, using colorful native Hawaiian vegetation, palm trees, and grassy areas so owners can fully embrace the island life.
With offices in Maui and Honolulu, APGC understands the importance of coordination and planning when it comes to complex multifamily residential developments.
Allied Builders System
1717 Akahi Street, Honolulu, HI 96819
Locally owned and operated in Hawaii, Allied Builders System is a commercial contractor with specialties in a range of industries. The firm’s expertise targets the hospitality, healthcare, light industrial, and low-rise residential sectors. It has a complete range of pre-construction and project management services to achieve the client’s goals and objectives.
Allied Builders is one of the most recognized contractors in the state with award-winning projects and an ever-growing client base. Having completed work for Hawaii’s most prominent companies, Allied Builders is one of the state’s top 250 companies as well as one of the top 20 construction companies. Exceptional craftsmanship and industry expertise make the firm a trusted building partner. The firm has built long-lasting relationships with owners, developers, designers, subcontractors, and architects that contribute to each project. This mutual trust and respect creating a collaborative working environment, paving the way for success.
Sheraton Waikiki in Honolulu is proof of what Allied Builders can accomplish with its team of builders. In essence, it was a comprehensive renovation of one of the largest hotels on Oahu. The unique project required the close collaboration of the contractor with two design firms as well as the coordination of the owner’s team and onsite hotel staff. Over 1,400 guest rooms were fully renovated and 27 corridors were refreshed while the hotel remained in operation during peak seasons.
In 2020, Allied Builders was given the Award of Merit & People’s Choice for Design. By nurturing a healthy work environment and cultivating long-lasting relationships, Allied Builders consistently delivers commercial construction that exceeds client expectations.
Su-Mo Builders, Inc.
907 Bannister Street, Honolulu, HI 98619
Established in 2000, Su-Mo Builders, Inc. provides professional construction services in the Pacific. As the general contractor of choice for the US Federal Government in the State of Hawaii, the firm is known for its track record in safety, quality, and customer service. Its portfolio consists of million-dollar projects as well as undertakings in remote locations throughout Hawaii.
Su-Mo Builders has a broad range of available construction services. It offers construction management, general contracting, design-build, and even Historical and Anti-terrorism/Force Protection (AT/FP) renovation and construction. With decades of experience, the firm can oversee multiple projects simultaneously. One of its longstanding business relationships includes the federal government, namely, the US Army, the US Navy, and the Hawaii Air National Guard.
The firm also has a number of high-profile commercial clients. Su-Mo Builders has completed projects for Hyatt and has been serving them for 11 years and counting. The Hyatt Waikiki project consisted of a renovation of their Spa and Fitness Center and the corridors of its two towers. Su-Mo Builders also oversaw other facets of the construction phase including demolitions, flooring installation, and furniture refurbishment.
Its commitment to safety throughout the years won the firm the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Award for Safety Excellence. It is USGBC-certified as its team continues to use sustainable building practices in the design, development, and construction of its projects.
Hawaiian Dredging Construction Company, Inc
605 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96813
Having been around for over a century, Hawaiian Dredging Construction Company (HDCC) has played its part in history. As the oldest and largest full-service general contractor in the state, one of its early projects was the dredging of the entrance to Pearl Harbor. HDCC also constructed the Ala Wai Canal and helped in the development of Honolulu’s waterfront from Honolulu Harbor to Waikiki. Following World War II, the firm built many of Hawaii’s and began its projects in the hospitality sector. Some of the projects under its belt include the Four Seasons Wailea Hotel in Maui and the Hawaii Prince Hotel in Waikiki.
Today, with more than 900 employees and 8,500 successful projects, HDCC continues to make its mark by building the structures that define Hawaii. The firm draws from a century of experience and expertise to craft innovative solutions with a dedicated workforce. Most businesses in Hawaii know HDCC for its dependable construction.
A luxury beachfront condominium is one of the firm’s many successes. Ko Olina Beach Villas Resort consists of 101 residential units complete with ground level and underground parking. The two-tower complex is fully equipped with amenities such as a fitness center, pools, a beach-side bar, and barbeque stations. The condominiums lie steps away from the beach and lagoons, both of which HDCC had a part in creating years before.
Despite its long history in the construction industry, HDCC is not falling behind. HDCC was given the Bronze Reconstruction Award in 2018. The firm is a LEED-certified contractor using sustainable building practices to create durable but environmentally friendly structures. It is also accredited by the Building Industry Association of Hawaii (BIA) and the General Contractors Association of Hawaii (GCA).
PCL Construction
1099 Alakea Street, Suite 1600, Honolulu, HI 96813
Locally known as Nordic PCL Construction in Hawaii, this firm has built communities and worked sustainably as it grew. With more than 80 years of experience in construction in the state, Nordic PCL is an ohana-based construction partner. It brings full-service building services from modular construction to cutting-edge sustainability. The industry specialist leverages its expertise to create a customized approach for each project. As a leading provider of construction services, the firm is a steadfast believer in diversity, inclusion, innovation, and sustainability.
Nordic PCL has a vision for the future of construction. It strives to build communities that will last for generations to come. As such, the people behind Nordic PCL always look ahead while they apply their unique expertise to overcome any challenges and setbacks.
In Waikiki, Nordic PCL was able to bring for-rent living to the beachfront. The firm was the first to introduce a high-rise tower in the neighborhood in over 20 years. The 28-story building is complete with an amenity deck featuring a pool, cabanas, and barbeque areas that residents can enjoy.
With a future-focused approach to construction, Nordic PCL delivers high-quality and sustainable solutions that will help build a better future. Using its 5P Model, the contractor can ensure that their efforts result in positive outcomes. Each partner involved in the project ensures that everyone acts in a socially responsible and environmentally friendly manner without sacrificing safety.
Nan, Inc.
636 Laumaka Street, Honolulu, HI 96819
Since its inception in 1990, Nan, Inc. continues to help build Hawaii’s future. Starting from the smallest of construction projects, the firm has since grown to become one of the largest locally-owned and operated general contractors. These years of experience have equipped its team to handle the most complex projects. With specialty services in preconstruction, general contracting, and design-build, Nan, Inc. has come far from its humble beginnings.
Nan, Inc. is a trusted name in the building industry. It has consistently ranked amongst Hawaii’s Top Contractors after handling several million-dollar renovations, preserving historic structures, and providing technological solutions. With its considerable resources, the company is a leading performer in construction management services. A wealth of experience allows the firm to successfully oversee multiple projects simultaneously.
The ‘Alohilani Resort in Waikiki, Oahu, went through a major transformation under the hands of Nan, Inc. Playing a lead role in its renovation, the firm was able to finish remodeling 839 guestrooms and 48 corridors while the hotel remained in operation. The demolition and construction of the hotel’s registration area were also provided by Nan, Inc. The work transformed the hotel’s property and amenities into something new and modern.
Nan, Inc. achieves exceptional quality and practices safety. The firm was given the Safety Excellence Award from the US Army Corps, as well as the Award of Excellence & Hawaii Energy Award in 2020. With an “aloha” approach to building projects, Nan, Inc. hopes to contribute to a better world one structure at a time.
Armstrong Builders, LLC
80 Sand Island Access Road, Suite 209, Honolulu, HI 96819
Serving Hawaii since 1976, Armstrong Builders, LLC is a leader in the commercial and residential construction industry. With specialties in residential, commercial, and green developments, Armstrong Builders creates a unique sense of place that offers tremendous value. Whether it’s a dream estate, a luxury development, or a high-rise condominium, the firm strives to be the best building partner to every client.
Armstrong Builders is staffed with cutting-edge builders and LEED accredited industry professionals. The versatile experience in different industries ensures that the best service is always provided, no matter the job. The Armstrong Companies are also involved in all aspects of real estate development, as well as design, sales, property management, and community philanthropy.
The Kai Lani at Ko Olina project won the firm two awards: the Housing Award for Multi-Family and the Award of Excellence. Outside of that project, the multi-award-winning firm has also received more recognition within the industry. The firm was given the Grand Award at the 2020 Building Industry Design & Construction Awards and is currently a five-time recipient of BIA’s Builder of the Year Award. Armstrong Builders has a reputation for excellence in both residential and commercial projects using the latest materials and sustainable building practices.
Swinerton Builders
841 Bishop Street, Suite 500, Honolulu, HI 96813
Swinerton Builders has been building structures around Hawaii for more than 130 years. Tracing its roots back to 1888, the firm has survived two world wars, the Great Depression and Recession, and countless natural disasters. Throughout the years, Swinerton has relied on its exceptional craftsmen to create landmark projects in Hawaii and beyond.
Now staffed with 4,000 employees across the nation, Swinerton’s legacy has never been stronger. It has helped build communities from the Rocky Mountains to the Hawaiian Islands, from the Gulf of Alaska to the jungles of Colombia. Many of the firm’s projects have claimed a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
Since its inception, the firm has worked with a diverse array of clients in various industries. The Hale Kewalo project, complete with solar hot water and energy-efficient appliances, earned the firm the 2020 Kukulu Hale Award and the GCA Award of Excellence for New Construction. Well-renowned in the construction industry, Swinerton keeps up to date with the latest technology and sustainable building practices. Emphasizing affordable housing, the firm exceeds client expectations while fulfilling its advocacy for green building. It has LEED AP BD+C accredited and USGBC certified staff to ensure that the firm follows the latest green practices.
What makes Swinerton Builders one of the best multifamily contractors in Honolulu, Hawaii isn’t just its historic projects, but its company culture. Hawaii Business Magazine named the firm as one of the runner-ups for the Best Places to Work in the medium-size company category and one of the Top Employers in the State in 2019.
The firm has also won a wide range of awards. It received two Awards of Excellence for HPU and Tokai and a Merit Award for Bloomingdale’s. It was recently a recipient of the 2021 GCA Build Hawaii Awards Grand Prize & Renovation/Remodeling Award.
Albert C. Kobayashi, Inc
94-535 Ukee Street, Waipahu, HI 96797
Providing the most effective method of construction, Albert C. Kobayashi, Inc. (ACK) is a general contractor specializing in all aspects of residential and commercial building. The self-named contracting firm was founded in 1944 and was family-operated until it transitioned to being an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) firm. ACK has long been known within the industry for its quality workmanship.
Involved in landmark projects across Hawaii, the firm played a part in the building of the historic Moana Surfrider Hotel and the award-winning Park Lane Ala Moana luxury condominiums. For more than five decades, the firm’s accomplishments have mirrored Hawaii’s growth. It is dedicated to representing the next wave of success for Hawaii and the Pacific Rim.
What was once a small contractor specializing in single-family residential construction is now one of the forerunners in multifamily and commercial projects. The multi-award-winning firm is constantly pushing boundaries with its complex projects. Its confidence with commercial undertakings has earned ACK the Award of Excellence in the 2019 GCA Build Hawaii Awards, the #2 spot on Hawaii’s Top 25 Contractors list from the Building Industry Association of Hawaii, and the #28 spot on 2018’s Hawaii Business Magazine Top 250 Companies.
The LEED-certified and BIA-accredited contractor continues to serve both government and private sector customers across the state. With specialty services in hard-bid, design-build, and general construction, ACK places high value in meeting client needs without unnecessary costs and delays. Having built long-lasting relationships with expert craftsmen, ACK is represented by some of the most talented and experienced professionals in the building industry.
Hensel Phelps
841 Bishop Street, Suite 2001, Honolulu, HI 96813
Hensel Phelps stemmed from one man’s dream and grew to become one of America’s most successful contractors. The firm was originally founded in 1937 and based in Colorado, but today Hensel Phelps has multiple offices across the United States, including Hawaii. It takes a collaborative approach to construction known as the Hensel Phelps Way. It’s more than a mantra; it blends smart building practices with innovative technology and open communication throughout the entire process. The firm’s guiding principles are the reason why clients keep coming back to the firm with their most important and complex projects.
Hensel Phelps has specialty services in the hospitality industry. The firm has expertise in full-service convention centers, hotels, resorts, and amusement park projects. It has worked alongside some of the biggest names in hospitality, such as Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, and Universal Parks & Resorts, to create an unforgettable travel experience. To date, the firm has more than $6.3 billion worth of hospitality projects. Regardless of the size, Hensel Phelps has mastered the process of delivering quality output efficiently.
Hilton Worldwide called on Hensel Phelps to create a LEED-certified hotel in Hawaii, the Hokulani Waikiki by Hilton Grand Vacations. The resort renovation consisted of 144 guest rooms, boutique kitchens, and modern amenities. The firm also delivered the unique space of its rooftop bar and lounge area complete with a dramatic water feature and lobby arrival experience. Using native materials, the interior design captured the essence of Hawaii’s vibrant culture and landscape.
The firm is known for being a multi-award winner. To date, it has 15 Associated General Contractors Build America Awards, 8 National Design-Build Awards, 52 National Safety Awards, and 30 Design-Build Excellence Awards in its collection. As the #1 industry leader in design-build, the firm’s work speaks for itself. Hensel Phelps’ list of repeat clients is perhaps the biggest indication of its success as a company. It’s one of the best multifamily contractors you can find in Honolulu, Hawaii.
