Shops at Wailea Rolls Out Renovations

Renderings of the planned renovations. Photo courtesy: The Shops at Wailea.

Construction has begun at The Shops at Wailea for its center-wide revitalization plan, featuring designs “infused with elements significant to Maui’s history and culture,” according to mall representatives.

While representatives say the project should be completed before the upcoming holiday season, the shopping center will remain open throughout the renovation. Regular activities, signature concerts, and cultural entertainment are also expected to continue.

“The revitalization will bring a Hawaiian sense of place to The Shops’ public spaces through unique design elements that draw inspiration from the island’s magnificent terrain, taking guests on a veritable grand tour of the island’s beauty and bringing focus on Haleakalā as its majestic backdrop,” a press release from The Shops read.

“Mimicking the flowing landscape, the center’s new common  area design incorporates three distinct zones beginning with the focal entrance at Wailea Ike and Wailea Alanui Drive, which represents the volcano’s peak, the “Upper Mountain” luxury wing , the “Middle Valley” community of retail space; the “Lower Valley” gathering and events area, and clusters of retail and restaurant space.”

According to representatives, the design embraces the cultural significance related to the meaning of Wailea. The words – “wai,” meaning “fresh water” and “Lea,” the mythical goddess of canoe building – influence the center’s common area design.

“The existing waterfall that cascades from the Upper Mountain to the Middle Valley is part of the revitalization, representing the water that flows into the valleys. The story of canoe making is also recognized in the design, with the canoe form and natural materials being revealed in seating platforms, floor patterning and woven furniture.  From the triangular representation of Maui’s highest and most famous mountain, to the patterned weaving of lauhala, to the ʻukukoʻakoʻa (coral polyp) in Kanaloa’s briny expanse, each design element pays tribute to splendor of The Valley Isle,” the press release added.

The design modifications, representatives explained, are intended to invite guests to “linger and enjoy the passing time.”

In the Lower Valley, the existing fountain will be removed to create a large center lawn and walkway, as well as a performance area surrounded by canoe-inspired seating.

Renovation plans will also open up sight lines at the entryway “Trailheads” and store facades to allow for a more “free-flowing, organic design,” representatives added.