The Resort Lifestyle – Ala Moana

Tenth in a series

The design concept of the developer of Koolani was to create a luxury highrise, in-town, condominium residence incorporating the recreation options, amenities, and conveniences that attract buyers to Hawaii’s resort/residential communities. Location of such a project was also a consideration. The developer, Miami-based Crescent Heights, selected a 3.54-acre site within walking distance of beaches, shopping malls, and the Waikiki Yacht Club. Known for the quality of its projects, Crescent Heights assembled a blue ribbon team led by General Contractor Hawaiian Dredging Construction Company and Media5 Architecture to implement the design plan. In 2006, Koolani was completed in the “superblock,” a 17.25-acre landscaped, highrise condominium neighborhood bounded by Piikoi, Waimanu, Kamakee, and Ala Moana Boulevard.

The 48-story tower includes 370 residential units consisting of two and three bedroom apartments and 11 penthouses. Interiors of the units are contemporary in design with high quality finishes and appliances. The main living areas and bedrooms enjoy panoramic views through fl oor to ceiling windows. Lanais are incorporated into the living spaces and open up with glass sliders spanning eight feet.

Koolani raised the bar on common area amenities and recreation facilities for residential condominiums. Located on the sixth floor is a landscaped recreation deck with a heated swimming pool, hot tub, two lighted tennis courts, putting green, six barbecue areas, walking/jogging paths, and a dog park. Additional facilities include a business center, board room, 190-person capacity party room with kitchen, a DVD viewing theater with a large screen and lounge seating for 20, and a billiards room. The expansive lobby includes a concierge desk. Unique among Hawaii’s luxury condo developments is the 20,000 square foot in-house fitness center with state-of-theart exercise equipment and a full menu of spa treatments and therapies. Owned by the Association of Apartment Owners of Koolani, the Island Club and Spa offers a special rate to residents.

In 2006, a client of Realtor Jack Tyrrell purchased seven of Koolani’s 11 penthouses, furnished them, each with a distinctive decor, and placed them back on the market at prices ranging from $1,995,000 to $3,400,000.

Tyrrell has recently listed Penthouse 6, a three bedroom, three-and-a-half bath unit on the 46th floor, for $2,995,000, inclusive of two preferred assigned parking stalls in the secured garage. The main living and dining areas in the spacious 2,808 square foot unit overlook the ocean and coastline through walls of glass. “This highly-upgraded penthouse is like no other in Honolulu,” Tyrrell said. “The owner invested nearly $1 million in new finishes and upgrades. Their appreciation for fine art and architecture is showcased throughout the residence, which includes a home theater with soft leather recliner seating. Luxury detailing and finishes include flooring of hardwood, stone, and lush carpet, Lutron lighting, motorized window shades, a fabulous sound system, and built-in cabinetry. Views of the ocean, city, and sunset are amazing. The lights of Waikiki flickering on as the sky grows dark is a spectacle you never tire of watching.

“The Koolani penthouses and the building in general are among the best options for a luxury condo lifestyle that can be found anywhere in Hawaii. Buyers continue to be attracted to Koolani by its amenities, which are second to none, outstanding fitness center, and excellent security features. Just about everything you might want or need for recreation and entertainment is here on the premises or close by.”

A private showing of the unit and tour of the building can be arranged by contacting Jack Tyrrell & Company.