Hilton Grand Vacations (HGV) announced the start of construction of its newest resort, Hokulani Waikiki by Hilton Grand Vacations Club, an upscale urban timeshare resort in world-famous Waikiki. Coinciding with the start of the extensive renovation project was the official launch of sales for the resort, which is the company’s seventh timeshare resort in Hawaii.  The property is located at the site of the former OHANA® Islander Waikiki Hotel and was acquired from Outrigger Enterprises Group by HGV in May 2011. The resort is anticipated to open in late 2013.

Leading architectural firm Group 70 International of Honolulu has been commissioned to design the fourteen-story resort, which balances Hawaiian aesthetic with modern elements. Los Angeles-based studio Indidesign will oversee the interior design and Hensel Phelps has been selected as Construction Manager.

Hokulani Waikiki will be comprised of 143 one-bedroom suites with elegant and personalized touches, which include a living room, boutique kitchen and spacious bathrooms. Both interior and exterior designs will utilize natural elements and tones to showcase Hawaii’s unique cultural heritage and lush environment. Mahina, the spacious open air lobby, will provide a relaxing arrival experience as well as a personalized area to enjoy throughout the stay. Guests and owners will also have access to Nalani, an exclusive rooftop deck with a pool lounge, bar, private cabanas and dynamic views of Waikiki.

According to Bryan Klum, executive vice president of Hilton Grand Vacations-Asia/Pacific, Hokulani Waikiki was created with the sophisticated and active traveler in mind.

“We will deliver a guest experience that is contemporary, vibrant and fun,” Klum said. “We have incorporated a number of features and design elements that will distinctively set Hokulani Waikiki apart from other timeshare resorts in Hawaii. It will be the perfect choice for the traveler who wants to be in the center of Waikiki and is looking for an exciting, action-packed vacation. Hokulani Waikiki will be a great complement to our timeshare properties at the nearby Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort.”

The suites at Hokulani Waikiki have been superbly designed with surprising features and a decor approach that interprets Hawaiian motifs in a modern way, Klum said. “We think it will appeal equally to our domestic and international customers, especially those with urban sensibilities and appreciation for quality.”

Hokulani Waikiki is located at 2181 Kalakaua Avenue, adjacent to Lewers Street, which will provide guests with immediate access to premier shopping, dining and entertainment selections in the exciting Waikiki Beach Walk entertainment district.

Klum added that Hokulani Waikiki is further proof of the growing popularity of HGV’s timeshare offerings in Hawaii. It is also an opportunity to tap into the demand and awareness created by the Waikiki Beach Walk. “We are incredibly fortunate to have a wonderful working relationship with Outrigger Enterprises Group, and together we are committed to providing owners and guests with an opportunity to discover the wonders that can be found in Waikiki and throughout the island of Oahu,” he said.

“It’s a real pleasure to welcome Hilton Grand Vacations into our expanding ohana at Waikiki Beach Walk,” said Barbara Campbell, vice president of retail development and leasing for Outrigger Enterprises Group. “With a diverse array of dining and shopping opportunities, guests staying at Hokulani Waikiki will be able to experience firsthand our warm island hospitality and a genuine spirit of aloha.”

A blessing ceremony will be held later this month to signal the start of the renovations. Attendees will include company VIPs and other dignitaries.

Upon its completion, Hokulani Waikiki by Hilton Grand Vacations Club will join award-winning properties at Oahu’s Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort and Waikoloa Beach Resort on Hawaii’s Big Island.