Whether building for in-laws or grandparents or simply expanding a home, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are a popular and budget-friendly solution for families looking to save by building on the same lot. In Honolulu in particular, Aging-in-Place is one of the most popular reasons that homeowners choose to build ADUs.
To help homeowners who are interested in building an ADU, we’ve compiled a list of the best accessory dwelling unit builders in Honolulu. These builders were chosen based on their backgrounds, their experience, and their ability to build customized ADUs to suit the desires and needs of homeowners.
Graham Builders, Inc.
1144 Young St, Honolulu, HI 96814
For over 29 years, Graham Builders has been helping hundreds of local families achieve the homes of their dreams. The firm’s service offerings cover everything from single and multi-family new constructions and remodels to accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Led by CEO Danny Graham and President Evan Fujimoto, Graham Builders is one of Hawaii’s most experienced design and build companies.
Graham Builders was the first firm in Hawaii to have a certified Aging-in-Place specialist on staff. The number has since grown to three certified consultants and the firm continues to expand its services for homeowners’ mobility and safety needs in their homes. An example of the firm’s work on an ADU is pictured below. Built for a father and daughter living in rural Oahu, this 800-square foot, two-bedroom, one-bath home is a structurally sound, well-crafted unit that serves the homeowner’s needs. The homeowner thought that the best part about working with Graham Builders was that they let him customize as much of the design for the ADU as possible, leading him to be very satisfied with the result. One more thing going for the unit is its longevity: it will be able to house the grandchildren of the homeowner, serving the family’s needs for generations to come.
Blue + Green Innovations
619 Mapunapuna St, Honolulu, HI 96819
Blue + Green Innovations’ (B+G) practice involves the combination of three things: naturally-inspired aesthetics, technologically integrated systems, and ecologically sound innovations. This tried-and-tested formula is integrated into the very DNA of the firm’s work, even as it offers services as varied as new construction, renovations and remodels, job costing, value engineering, construction management, and consulting.
The firm also specializes in ADUs, Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs), and Micro Units. In fact, B+G was the very first to offer ADUs in Hawaii with its “All-In-One” ADU solution. The advantage of working with B+G on an ADU is that it offers a package that is truly turnkey, with architecture, building, design, permitting, modular kitchen and bathrooms, financing, and rental management all included in the deal. This kind of solution has revolutionized how ADUs are being built, and the firm is one to thank for introducing this development to Hawaii.
Atlas Construction Inc.
2222 Kamehameha Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96819
For four generations, the family-owned and operated Atlas Construction has been building Hawaii homes from the ground up. In addition to new constructions, the firm also specializes in remodeling and building multi-generational homes for growing families. The firm is currently led by Bruce Kim, who has built hundreds of homes.
Pictured below is an example of the firm’s work on a remodel and addition of an ADU. The result of the remodel and addition was a more spacious home, with room for the client’s desired functional spaces. The bathrooms are chic and stylish, with marble countertops and a mix of tiled and painted walls. The home also has a terrace that offers up splendid views of the outdoors.
Homeworks Construction, Inc.
2111 S. Beretania St, Honolulu, HI 96826
Homeworks Construction, Inc. is a full-service design-build firm that specializes in new homes, additions, remodeling, and kitchens and baths. Marshall Hickox, Jim Byxbee, and Sylvio Boucheroversee its operations and ensure that its services are offered at the most affordable prices. The firm is also very involved in Habitat for Humanity, the non-profit organization that combats homelessness by providing homes for the less fortunate.
To date, Homeworks has completed over 750 projects. Pictured below is an example of the firm’s work on an addition. Aging-in-Place units are popular with folks who have care-taking needs. This 1,000 square foot addition is an example of an Aging-in-Place unit for a family that was taking in their parents for care-taking needs. The homeowners requested a space that would afford privacy for both the in-laws and the homeowners, an aging-in-place design for the new addition and a separate entry in the back. All of these, as well as a full Aging-in-Place bathroom with a curbless walk-in shower, extra backing in the walls for grab bars and a roll-up sink were accomplished by Homeworks. The happy clients were delighted with their new space.
HK Construction
2046 S King Street, Honolulu, HI 96826
As a design-build firm, HK Construction is a one-stop-shop for all building, design, and remodeling needs. The firm offers personal design and planning services at a lower cost than an architect. Then it provides complete construction services, from digging a secure foundation to fixing any possible drainage issues. The firm provides the home—the additional home—that its Hawaii clients have always wanted for themselves and their families.
Pictured below is an example of the firm’s work on a residential project. This addition and renovation were completed on a home in Makakilo. What takes center stage in the room is the gorgeous view that spills into the room thanks to the two massive picture windows located behind a comfortable sofa. A set of glass doors leads to a terrace from which the view can be truly appreciated. Outdoor seating is available as well, so that the homeowners may relax while enjoying the Hawaiian paradise.
R. Clary Builders Inc.
970 N. Kalaheo Avenue, Kailua, HI 96734
Based in the Windward side—yet serving its surrounding cities including Honolulu, Hawaii Kai, Kailua, and Kaneohe—is the firm R. Clary Builders Inc. For years, it has built a strong reputation for quality service and workmanship. This reputation can be traced back to the firm’s founder, Rick Clary, who has thirty years of experience in the construction industry and was the former project superintendent for two of the largest developers on Oahu.
Pictured below is an example of the firm’s work on a residential project. This charming open concept kitchen and dining room are bright and airy, thanks to the sliding door and the windows placed at a high point in the room. The kitchen and dining spaces sit adjacent to each other, providing easy access between the areas. The open concept makes this room ideal for entertaining guests, or for simply having family over for meals.
Wave Builders LLC
94-459 A Uke’e St., Waipahu, HI 96797
Wave Builders LLC is a locally owned and operated company that specializes in high-end and custom residential projects. In addition to these services, the firm also provides kitchen and bathroom remodeling and new construction. The firm was founded by Wes Chun in 2015, and today it continues to practice “universal design” — a philosophy that means builds are shaped to accommodate anyone regardless of age, size, ability, or disability.
An example of the firm’s work is pictured below. The firm’s work in kitchen remodeling is particularly excellent, with the firm working to offer new and on-trend materials such as granite, travertine, laminate, or natural stone in place of outdated countertops. The firm can also install new appliances, and has the ability to improve traffic and visual flow from the kitchen to the rest of the house. The firm understands that, of any residential remodeling project, kitchen renovations offer one of the highest returns on investment which is why it strives to up its caliber in kitchen remodeling to help homeowners achieve value for their money.
DJ’s Construction Inc.
3600 Aolele St #31314, Honolulu, HI 96820
DJ’s Construction Inc. is a full-service construction company offering renovations, home additions, and ADUs, new home construction, as well as kitchen, bath, and deck installation services to Honolulu and its surrounding areas. When it comes to ADUs, the firm is capable of completing room layout changes, lanai and decks, recreation rooms, kitchens and bathrooms, and second-floor additions.
Pictured below is an example of the firm’s work on an ADU in Aiea. This compact kitchen is the perfect example of how to use limited space to its fullest potential. In this kitchen, you will find the basics such as a refrigerator and sink, and also a counter which can serve as both a food preparation area and a breakfast nook. The grey cabinets and shelf space bring together the whole look, resulting in a muted and soft appearance. Overall, the kitchen is just the right size for simple living. Learn more about their work at www.djsconstruction.net
Mali Bella Company, LLC
PO Box 88965 Honolulu, HI 96830
Mali Bella Company is a firm that specializes in commercial construction, new home construction, ADUs, retail facility maintenance, and community association and AOAO construction and maintenance. The firm is led by principals Sejal and Joseph Megill. Joseph got his start as a young boy helping his father build their home in the Hamptons, which is why the firm’s goal is to bring Hamptons quality and craftsmanship to Hawaii.
Pictured below is an example of the firm’s work on a second story addition. This bedroom is both cozy and airy, thanks to the windows surrounding the snug area of the bed. A wood and glass door also opens up to the outside, allowing the tropical breeze to waft into the room. Situated near the bedroom is the bathroom, obscured from the owners’ view by an intricate carved wooden sliding door. Directly adjacent to the bathroom are stairs leading down to the rest of the house.
Gundaker Works LLC
931 University Ave, Suite 305, Honolulu, HI 96826
As a design-build general contractor, Gundaker Works specializes in building custom homes and ADUs. Aside from these services, the firm also offers its expertise in structural foundations, framing, repairs, and erosion structures. The firm uses the design-build process to streamline projects and maximize efficiency while never losing sight of the client’s needs, budget, and desires.
Pictured below is an example of the firm’s work on a residential project. Laid out in an open concept, this kitchen and living room opens up through a sliding door to an outdoor dining room and lounge area. The whole room is made more spacious by the removal of walls. The cohesion of the functional spaces makes for an enjoyable area that can be used for entertaining guests or for having family over for meals.
