Ward Centre, the ʻIlima and Melia site · Feb 25 ʻIlima
by Howard Hughes · Condominium tower · under construction
ʻIlima is a condominium tower Howard Hughes is building in Ward Village with Discovery Land Company, beside its companion tower Melia.
The residences
Two- to six-bedroom homes, with Mohala, the owners’ club shared with Melia.
Where it sits
At 1238 Ala Moana Boulevard, on the former Ward Centre site.
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Resale Homes owners are selling
ʻIlima is not built yet, so there are no resales. Owners sell in Ward Village’s finished towers.
ʻIlima is one of Ward Village’s towers. Compare what else is selling, the resale towers and the master plan.
Deep analysisThe complete ʻIlima guide, section by section
ʻIlima is an ultra-luxury 33-story, 148-unit residential tower under development at 1238 Ala Moana Boulevard in Ward Village, Honolulu, representing a partnership between The Howard Hughes Corporation and Discovery Land Company. Designed by renowned architect Robert A.M. Stern with interiors by Champalimaud Design, ʻIlima targets the highest end of Hawaii’s luxury market with residences of two to five bedrooms in its June 2023 permit filing; current pricing on request. The building will feature Mohala, an exclusive owners’ club offering resort-style amenities and white-glove concierge services previously unseen in Honolulu’s condominium market. Ward Village broke ground on September 28, 2026, and Howard Hughes’ quarterly report for the period ended June 30, 2026 lists completion in 2030.
Quick Facts: ʻIlima at a Glance
- Address: 1238 Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96814 (former Ward Centre site)
- Expected Completion: 2030, per Howard Hughes’ quarterly report for the period ended June 30, 2026 (groundbreaking September 28, 2026)
- Developer: The Howard Hughes Corporation in partnership with Discovery Land Company
- Architect: Robert A.M. Stern Architects (RAMSA) with AHL Design
- Interior Design: Champalimaud Design
- Landscape Design: VITA Planning & Landscape Architecture
- Height: 33 stories (~400 feet)
- Total Units: 148 (all ultra-luxury market-rate)
- Unit Mix: 2-5 bedroom residences (no studios or 1BR; June 2023 HCDA permit filing)
- Parking: 381 residential stalls + 19 guest stalls (floors 2-4)
- Retail: ~7,400 sq ft ground floor commercial space
- Pricing: Current pricing on request. MLS, October 28, 2026: the developer’s brokerage lists a 1,784 sq ft two-bedroom at $3,935,000 and a 2,533 sq ft three-bedroom at $8,525,000
- Estimated Maintenance Fee: About $1.86/sq ft a month, the developer’s estimate on its MLS listings (October 28, 2026); excludes Mohala club membership
- Amenities: 81,000+ sq ft of resort-style amenities including Mohala owners’ club
Record-Breaking Sales Launch: $1.2 Billion in Pre-Sales
When ʻIlima and its sister tower Melia launched sales in 2025, they generated $1.2 billion in combined pre-sales—including over $280 million in penthouse sales alone (Howard Hughes, September 4, 2025). One residence sold for more than $40 million, and Howard Hughes called the launch sales the highest ever seen in Hawaiʻi, in both volume and pricing. ʻIlima was 41% pre-sold on September 1, 2025; Howard Hughes’ quarterly report for the period ended June 30, 2026 lists 93 of its 148 homes under contract (63%). This extraordinary sales performance demonstrates the pent-up demand for true ultra-luxury residential product in Honolulu, where the supply of homes at this level has been limited to single-family estates in Kahala and Hawaii Loa Ridge.
The sales success reflects several factors: Discovery Land Company’s reputation for creating exclusive residential communities, Robert A.M. Stern’s classical design approach appealing to affluent buyers, ʻIlima’s prime oceanfront-adjacent location, and the comprehensive Mohala club amenities that differentiate the project from standard luxury condominiums. Buyers include Hawaii residents upgrading from nearby luxury towers, mainland buyers seeking a Hawaii pied-à-terre with resort services, and international buyers attracted to Discovery Land Company’s global brand.
The Discovery Land Company Partnership: Bringing Resort-Club Living to Urban Honolulu
Discovery Land Company’s involvement in ʻIlima represents the company’s first urban residential tower project, adapting their signature private community model—previously limited to destination resorts—for vertical living in Honolulu. Founded in 1994 by Mike Meldman, Discovery Land Company operates exclusive residential club communities across North America, the Caribbean, and internationally, including Hawaii’s Kukio Golf & Beach Club on the Big Island’s Kona Coast.
Discovery Land’s philosophy centers on “enhancing the natural character” of properties while providing members with family-oriented lifestyle experiences and exceptional service. Their communities typically feature:
- White-Glove Service: Dedicated concierge teams handling everything from grocery pre-stocking to activity bookings
- Curated Programming: Family activities, cultural experiences, and social events tailored to community interests
- Exclusive Access: Members-only facilities, restaurants, and recreational offerings
- Global Network: Reciprocal privileges at other Discovery Land communities worldwide
- Family Focus: Emphasis on multi-generational experiences and creating lasting memories
At ʻIlima, these principles will manifest through Mohala, the exclusive owners’ club housed within the building. Unlike typical condominium amenities operated by an Association of Apartment Owners, Mohala will be professionally managed by Discovery Land Company with staffing levels and service standards comparable to Hawaii’s finest resort hotels.
Previous Howard Hughes / Discovery Land Collaboration
The partnership builds on the companies’ successful collaboration in Las Vegas, where Discovery Land operates the Summit Club within Howard Hughes’ Summerlin master-planned community. That project’s success—including expanded phases to meet demand—provided the confidence to bring the model to Ward Village. ʻIlima represents an evolution of that partnership, testing whether Discovery Land’s resort-community approach can succeed in a vertical urban environment rather than a sprawling golf-community setting.
Architecture: Robert A.M. Stern’s Classical Elegance
Robert A.M. Stern Architects brings over 50 years of experience and an international reputation for sophisticated residential design, with ʻIlima drawing inspiration from Hawaii’s architectural heritage including Spalding House, the Halekulani Hotel, and the Honolulu Museum of Art. This design approach emphasizes refined, understated luxury—a deliberate contrast to the contemporary glass-tower aesthetic that dominates most of Ward Village.
RAMSA’s design for ʻIlima features:
- Angular L-Shaped Facade: Creates multiple premium corner residences with expanded view corridors
- Classical Proportions: Human-scaled details and materials referencing Hawaii’s historic architecture
- Setback Design: Tower set approximately 75 feet back from Ala Moana Boulevard, reducing street noise and enhancing privacy
- Premium Corner Units: The angular design creates more corner residences than typical rectangular towers, maximizing ocean and Diamond Head views
- Balcony Integration: Select residences feature Juliet-style balconies on the Diamond Head side, while others have full lanais strengthening indoor-outdoor connection
- Five-Story Podium: 65-foot base houses parking, storage, and amenity spaces while establishing street presence
The design intentionally avoids the aggressive contemporary statements of some Ward Village towers (like Kō’ula’s undulating facade), instead pursuing timeless elegance that will age gracefully. Stern’s approach has proven popular with affluent buyers who prefer understated sophistication over architectural showmanship.
Building Specifications: 148 Estate-Style Residences
ʻIlima will contain just 148 residences across floors 7-33, creating an exceptionally low-density luxury tower with typically six units per floor on floors 7-28. This unit count is less than half the density of earlier Ward Village towers like Ae’o (466 units) or Kō’ula (566 units), ensuring privacy, exclusivity, and minimal elevator congestion.
Unit Mix: No Studios or One-Bedrooms
| Unit Type | Count (June 2023 HCDA permit filing) |
|---|---|
| 2-Bedroom | 92 |
| 3-Bedroom | 48 |
| 4-Bedroom | 6 |
| 5-Bedroom | 2 |
The absence of studios and one-bedroom units represents a deliberate strategy targeting affluent families and couples seeking spacious residences rather than investment-focused studio buyers. The two-bedroom the developer listed on the MLS on October 28, 2026 measures 1,784 square feet—larger than most three-bedroom units in earlier Ward Village towers. This sizing positions ʻIlima as true estate-style living rather than typical urban condominium product.
Floor layouts typically include four two-bedroom units and two three-bedroom units per floor on floors 7-28, with upper floors featuring fewer, larger residences. The largest residences offer square footage comparable to luxury single-family homes.
Residence Features
- Ceiling Heights: 11-foot ceilings on most floors (higher than typical Ward Village towers’ 8’8″-9′)
- All En Suite Bedrooms: Every bedroom includes private bathroom—no shared bathrooms
- Powder Rooms: All residences include separate powder room for guests
- Customization: Extensive kitchen and bathroom customization beyond typical “select from three colors” packages
- Smart Home Integration: Comprehensive pre-wiring for lighting, climate, security, and entertainment systems
- Service Elevator: Separate service elevator minimizes interaction between residents and delivery/maintenance staff
Parking & Storage
The five-story podium (floors 2-4 primarily) houses 381 residential parking stalls plus 19 guest stalls—representing approximately 2.7 stalls per residence, far exceeding standard Honolulu requirements. Affluent buyers often own multiple vehicles, and this generous parking allocation accommodates luxury car collections without fights over limited stalls. The building also includes 60 bicycle parking stalls and dedicated storage for all residences.
Valet-only parking accessed from Auahi Street ensures residents never worry about parking availability or navigating tight garage spaces. Valet staff (part of Mohala services) will handle all vehicle movements, wash cars upon request, and coordinate service appointments.
Mohala: The Exclusive Owners’ Club
Mohala is ʻIlima’s centerpiece amenity—an optional private club managed by Discovery Land Company offering resort-level services and facilities exclusive to club members. Unlike typical condominium amenities open to all residents, Mohala operates on a membership model requiring a joining fee plus annual dues. Only Mohala members can access the club’s restaurants, amenities, and concierge services.
Club Services
- Valet Parking: All parking handled by professional valet staff
- Lifestyle Concierge: Dedicated concierge team handling restaurant reservations, activity bookings, travel arrangements
- Pre-Stocked Residences: Groceries and household items ready before arrival
- In-Residence Services: Coordination of housekeeping, maintenance, and specialty services
- Priority Access: Preferred booking for dining, spa treatments, and curated activities
- 43-Foot Yacht: Shared yacht available to members for ocean excursions
- Curated Programming: Cultural activities, family events, and social gatherings
Three On-Site Restaurants
Mohala will include three club-operated restaurants accessible only to members and their guests (accompanied by the owner). This dining program represents a fundamental departure from typical condominium amenity spaces, instead replicating the resort or country-club model where dining is a core component of the lifestyle offering. Expect fine dining, casual options, and specialty concepts curated to member preferences.
The restaurant program requires Mohala membership—non-member residents cannot access these facilities. This exclusivity structure ensures intimate scale, attentive service, and the ability to customize menus and programming based on member feedback.
Membership Structure
Mohala membership is optional for ʻIlima owners but required to access club amenities and services. Initiation fees and annual dues are on request. Mohala’s disclaimers (checked October 28, 2026) say the club’s owner sets its fees and conditions of use, and that buying a residence does not guarantee membership. Non-members can still enjoy their residences and access certain building common areas, but cannot use Mohala facilities or services.
This two-tiered structure may prove controversial—owners paying multi-million-dollar prices for residences plus significant monthly maintenance fees still face additional costs for full amenity access. However, it mirrors the country club and private community models familiar to Discovery Land’s target market, where membership dues fund exceptional service levels impossible under standard condominium fee structures.
Amenities: 81,000 Square Feet of Resort-Style Recreation
ʻIlima dedicates over 81,000 square feet to recreational space split between ground level, the 5th floor amenity deck (~75% of total), and the 6th floor (~25% of total), per the June 2023 HCDA permit filing. This represents approximately 547 square feet of amenity space per residence—far exceeding typical luxury towers.
Ground Level (~7,100 sq ft total)
- Outdoor Recreation: ~3,993 sq ft including landscaped gardens and seating areas
- Indoor Recreation: ~3,115 sq ft including lobby, club check-in, and resident services
- Porte Cochère: Covered vehicle drop-off with greeter and valet services
5th Floor Main Amenity Deck (~61,000 sq ft total)
The 5th floor represents ʻIlima’s primary amenity level, housing the majority of recreational facilities:
Outdoor Spaces (~39,341 sq ft):
- Lap Pool: 25+ meter pool for fitness swimming
- Resort Pool: Leisure pool with lounging areas and swim-up seating
- Hot Tub/Spa: Multiple hot tubs with ocean views
- Pool Bar: Full-service bar serving poolside
- Lawns & Gardens: Manicured green spaces for yoga, meditation, or play
- Vegetable Garden: Community garden with herbs and vegetables
Indoor Spaces (~21,784 sq ft):
- Fitness Center: State-of-the-art cardio and strength equipment
- Saunas & Steam Rooms: Separate facilities for post-workout recovery
- Spa Treatment Rooms: Professional massage and treatment spaces
- Dining Spaces: Primary restaurant and lounge areas
- Game/Arcade Areas: Entertainment options for children and adults
- Golf Simulator: Indoor golf practice and virtual courses
- Juice Bars: Health-focused beverage service
- Grab-and-Go Store: Convenience items and quick meals
6th Floor Additional Amenities (~12,844 sq ft total)
- Outdoor Space (~4,706 sq ft): Additional gardens, seating, and quiet zones
- Indoor Space (~8,138 sq ft): Private dining rooms, meeting spaces, and specialty facilities
This amenity package rivals Hawaii’s finest resort hotels—Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Halekulani—while remaining exclusive to ʻIlima residents (Mohala members). The comprehensiveness reflects Discovery Land Company’s philosophy: amenities should support daily lifestyle rather than serving as rarely-used sales tools.
Location: Prime Oceanfront-Adjacent on Former Ward Centre Site
ʻIlima occupies the former Ward Centre site at 1238 Ala Moana Boulevard—a 1.8-acre front-row lot directly across from Ala Moana Beach Park. This location represents one of Ward Village’s most valuable development parcels: oceanfront-adjacent, bordered by Ala Moana Boulevard to the south, the IBM Building to the east, Auahi Street to the north, and sister tower Melia to the west.
The site’s history adds cultural resonance: Ward Centre served for decades as a beloved community gathering place housing local restaurants, boutiques, and services. Its redevelopment into ʻIlima and Melia marks the final transformation of Ward Village’s oceanfront corridor from mid-century commercial district to 21st-century residential neighborhood.
Proximity Advantages
- Ala Moana Beach Park: Directly across Ala Moana Boulevard—76 acres of oceanfront recreation
- Magic Island: Peninsula park with calm swimming lagoon, walking paths (3-minute walk)
- Ward Village Retail: Shops, restaurants, Whole Foods within 5-minute walk
- Ala Moana Center: Hawaii’s largest mall accessible on foot (10-minute walk)
- Waikiki: 10-minute drive or 20-minute walk
- Kewalo Basin: Harbor, fishing charters, ocean sports (8-minute walk)
Ka Lei Park
Adjacent to ʻIlima, Ka Lei Park will provide approximately 36,000 square feet of open space with landscaped lawns, shaded seating, walking paths, and a children’s play area. This park serves as a transitional green space between ʻIlima/Melia’s high-density development and the broader Ward Village neighborhood, offering residents an immediate outdoor retreat beyond the building’s private amenities.
Landscaping & Streetscape Enhancements
VITA Planning & Landscape Architecture’s design includes extensive street-level improvements: 15-foot setbacks along Auahi Street and Ala Moana Boulevard create wide sidewalks with shade trees and upgraded landscaping. A “botanical garden” pathway featuring 14+ species of native Hawaiian plants will connect the IBM Building to Diamond Head Plaza Park, enhancing the pedestrian experience throughout the area.
Pricing: Hawaii’s Most Expensive Condominium Tower
Current pricing on request: ask the Ward Village sales team for the current price list. The dated prices on record are the developer’s own MLS listings. On October 28, 2026, its brokerage, Ward Village Properties, listed two ʻIlima homes: a 1,784 sq ft two-bedroom at $3,935,000 (about $2,206 per square foot) and a 2,533 sq ft three-bedroom at $8,525,000 (about $3,366 per square foot). Those are asking prices for two homes, not a price range for the building. Howard Hughes called the 2025 launch sales of ʻIlima and Melia the highest ever seen in Hawaiʻi, in both volume and pricing, with one residence selling for more than $40 million (September 4, 2025). To compare with earlier towers such as Waiea and Anaha, see our Ward Village price guide.
Pricing by Unit Type
| Unit Type | Homes (June 2023 HCDA permit filing) | Listed on the MLS by the developer’s brokerage, October 28, 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 2-Bedroom | 92 | 1,784 sq ft at $3,935,000 |
| 3-Bedroom | 48 | 2,533 sq ft at $8,525,000 |
| 4-Bedroom | 6 | None listed; pricing on request |
| 5-Bedroom | 2 | None listed; pricing on request |
The pricing reflects:
- Discovery Land Company Brand: Premium pricing for access to global club network and service standards
- Estate-Style Sizing: No small units diluting per-square-foot pricing
- Mohala Club Facilities: 81,000 sq ft of amenities rivals standalone resort hotels
- Prime Location: Front-row Ala Moana Boulevard with ocean views
- Low Density: 148 units versus 400-600 in typical towers ensures exclusivity
- Customization: Extensive finish selections and layout modifications included
Maintenance Fees & Mohala Membership
The developer’s MLS listings carry estimated maintenance fees of about $1.86 per square foot a month, excluding Mohala club membership dues (October 28, 2026). On those listings that is:
- 2-Bedroom (1,784 sq ft): $3,321/month base maintenance + Mohala dues
- 3-Bedroom (2,533 sq ft): $4,714/month base maintenance + Mohala dues
Mohala club membership (initiation fee plus annual dues) is an additional cost, on request; the club’s owner sets its fees. Ask for the developer’s public report, which carries the condominium’s budget, and for the current membership terms in writing. Total housing costs including mortgage, property taxes, maintenance fees, and club dues limit the buyer pool to households with substantial income or wealth.
Interior Design: Champalimaud’s Bespoke Elegance
New York-based Champalimaud Design is crafting ʻIlima’s interiors with a focus on expressing individual character through extraordinary detail and custom elements. The firm specializes in high-end residential and hospitality projects, creating spaces that resonate emotionally rather than following generic luxury formulas.
For ʻIlima, expect:
- Custom Millwork: Bespoke cabinetry tailored to each residence
- Premium Materials: Natural stone, fine woods, designer hardware throughout
- Lighting Design: Integrated lighting systems enhancing architecture and mood
- Furniture Packages: Optional designer-curated furniture collections
- Art Consultation: Guidance on integrating art into residences
The customization level far exceeds typical condominium developer finishes. Rather than selecting from three pre-designed packages, buyers work with design teams to create truly personalized homes—an approach appropriate given the price points.
Development Timeline & Current Status
Ward Centre closed on June 30, 2026, and Ward Village broke ground on ʻIlima and Melia on September 28, 2026. In October 2026, Howard Hughes’ Doug Johnstone said demolition was underway and expected to finish early in 2027. Howard Hughes’ quarterly report for the period ended June 30, 2026 lists completion in 2030. The 2025 sales launch generated extraordinary pre-sales ($1.2 billion combined with Melia), providing the financial foundation to proceed with construction.
Key milestones:
- March 2024: Partnership between Howard Hughes and Discovery Land announced
- June 2025: Pre-sales begin at ʻIlima and Melia
- September 2025: Howard Hughes reports $1.2B in launch sales, including one residence sold for more than $40 million; ʻIlima 41% pre-sold on September 1, 2025
- June 30, 2026: Ward Centre closes; Howard Hughes’ quarterly report for that date lists 93 of ʻIlima’s 148 homes under contract (63%)
- September 28, 2026: Ward Village breaks ground on ʻIlima and Melia
- 2030: Completion, per Howard Hughes’ quarterly report for the period ended June 30, 2026
The 4-5 year construction timeline reflects the building’s complexity, custom finish requirements, and coordination with adjacent Melia tower. Buyers should plan accordingly—deposits paid now won’t yield occupancy for several years, and market conditions may shift during that period.
Pros and Cons: An Honest Assessment
Advantages
- Discovery Land Pedigree: Access to proven luxury community operator and global club network
- Mohala Services: Resort-level concierge and amenities unmatched in Honolulu condominiums
- Prime Location: Oceanfront-adjacent on Ala Moana Boulevard’s coveted front row
- Low Density: 148 units ensures intimacy, privacy, and minimal crowding
- Estate Sizing: 2BR minimum means no tiny studios—all residences offer genuine living space
- Robert A.M. Stern Architecture: Timeless classical design from renowned firm
- Customization: Extensive finish selections create personalized homes
- Record Sales: $1.2B pre-sales validate market demand and project viability
- 43-Foot Yacht: Shared yacht access adds unique lifestyle amenity
Disadvantages
- Extraordinary Cost: multi-million-dollar prices plus club dues limit buyer pool to ultra-wealthy
- Two-Tier System: Mohala membership required for full amenity access creates haves/have-nots
- Construction Risk: 4-5 year wait exposes buyers to market shifts, construction delays, cost overruns
- Unproven Model: Discovery Land’s first urban tower—no track record for vertical club living
- High Maintenance + Dues: $1.86/sq ft a month maintenance (the developer’s estimate on its MLS listings, October 28, 2026) plus club dues create high ongoing costs
- Exclusivity May Backfire: Mohala’s restaurant/amenity exclusivity could feel isolating vs. welcoming
- Resale Uncertainty: Ultra-luxury Hawaii condo resale market is thin—finding buyers at the top of the market may prove challenging
- No Short-Term Rentals: Likely prohibited, eliminating investment income strategy
- Guest Restrictions: Mohala amenities unavailable to guests without owner present
Who Should Consider ʻIlima?
Best Fit: Ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families seeking resort-style services in a Ward Village setting, Discovery Land Company enthusiasts who value the club lifestyle, buyers willing to pay premium pricing for exclusivity and service, empty-nesters or multi-generational families needing generous space. Particularly suited to mainland/international buyers seeking turnkey Hawaii living without single-family home maintenance.
Proceed with Caution: Buyers on any budget constraint (ʻIlima is unapologetically expensive), those seeking investment returns rather than lifestyle value, buyers uncomfortable with 4-5 year construction timelines, anyone questioning whether multi-million-dollar condo pricing makes sense in Hawaii’s market. If you’re comparing ʻIlima to Waiea/Anaha based on price per square foot, you’re not the target buyer—this is fundamentally a different product category.
Comparison: ʻIlima vs. Other Hawaii Ultra-Luxury Options
ʻIlima doesn’t compete directly with earlier Ward Village towers—it occupies a different market tier entirely:
- vs. Waiea/Anaha: ʻIlima includes Discovery Land services and the Mohala club; Waiea/Anaha have established resale markets but standard AOAO amenities
- vs. Kahala/Hawaii Loa Ridge Estates: ʻIlima offers urban convenience and resort services; single-family estates provide land, privacy, and traditional luxury home lifestyle
- vs. Four Seasons/Ritz Residences: ʻIlima is pure residential ownership; hotel residences offer rental income but lose homey feel and have transient neighbors
- vs. Kō’ula/Victoria Place: Not comparable—those towers serve a broader market with smaller homes; ʻIlima starts at two bedrooms
The closest comp may be Discovery Land’s own Kukio on the Big Island. ʻIlima brings similar service standards and club lifestyle to an urban Oahu setting for buyers who prefer Honolulu to Kona.
The Bottom Line
ʻIlima represents Howard Hughes Corporation and Discovery Land Company’s ambitious bet that Hawaii’s ultra-wealthy will embrace vertical club living at pricing previously reserved for oceanfront estates. The record-breaking $1.2 billion sales launch suggests they’re right: there is pent-up demand for true luxury residential product in Honolulu with services, amenities, and exclusivity that transcend standard condominium offerings.
The success hinges on execution. Discovery Land Company must deliver resort-quality service in an urban tower setting—unproven territory for a company known for sprawling golf communities. Mohala’s restaurant program, concierge services, and club programming must justify the premium pricing and ongoing membership costs. And buyers must accept that multi-million-dollar condominium living makes sense when the alternative is maintaining a Kahala estate without ʻIlima’s convenience and services.
For the right buyer—one who values service, amenities, and community over square footage and land ownership—ʻIlima could be transformative. It’s not a condominium in the traditional sense; it’s a private residential club that happens to occupy a vertical tower. If you understand that distinction and have the wealth to afford it, ʻIlima merits serious consideration. If you’re seeking condo living that pencils out financially or offers traditional value metrics, look elsewhere—this isn’t that product.
The project’s ultimate success will be judged not in 2026 when construction begins, but in 2030 when residents move in and Mohala begins daily operations. If Discovery Land delivers on their service promises and residents embrace the club lifestyle, ʻIlima will establish a new template for luxury urban living in Hawaii. If it falls short, it will serve as an expensive lesson that ultra-luxury amenities without ultra-luxury execution disappoints at any price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do ʻIlima units cost?
Current pricing is on request from the Ward Village sales team. The dated prices on record are the developer’s own MLS listings: on October 28, 2026 its brokerage listed a 1,784 sq ft two-bedroom at $3,935,000 and a 2,533 sq ft three-bedroom at $8,525,000. One residence in ʻIlima and Melia sold for more than $40 million at the 2025 launch.
What is Mohala and is membership required?
Mohala is an exclusive owners’ club operated by Discovery Land Company offering resort-style amenities and concierge services. Membership is optional for ʻIlima owners but required to access club restaurants, amenities, and services. Fees and dues are on request; the club’s owner sets them.
When will ʻIlima be completed?
Howard Hughes’ quarterly report for the period ended June 30, 2026 lists completion in 2030. Ward Village broke ground on September 28, 2026.
How many units does ʻIlima have?
148 total units (Ward Village, September 28, 2026), two to five bedrooms in the June 2023 HCDA permit filing. There are no studios or one-bedroom units.
Who designed ʻIlima?
Robert A.M. Stern Architects designed the architecture with AHL Design as local collaborators. Champalimaud Design created the interiors, and VITA Planning & Landscape Architecture designed the landscaping.
What is Discovery Land Company?
Discovery Land Company is a luxury residential club community developer founded in 1994 by Mike Meldman. They operate exclusive communities including Kukio on Hawaii’s Big Island, the Summit Club in Las Vegas, and properties across North America and internationally.
Can I rent my ʻIlima unit?
Rental policies have not been finalized but short-term rentals (under 30 days) are likely prohibited. Verify current AOAO rules before purchase if rental income is part of your investment strategy.
What are the maintenance fees?
The developer’s MLS listings carry an estimate of about $1.86 per square foot a month, excluding Mohala membership: $3,321/month on a 1,784 sq ft two-bedroom and $4,714/month on a 2,533 sq ft three-bedroom (October 28, 2026). Mohala club dues are separate.
Is ʻIlima oceanfront?
ʻIlima is oceanfront-adjacent, located on Ala Moana Boulevard directly across from Ala Moana Beach Park. Units will have ocean views but the building is not directly on the beach—Ala Moana Boulevard and the park separate the tower from the water.
How does ʻIlima compare to Waiea and Anaha?
ʻIlima adds resort-style services through Mohala that Waiea/Anaha don’t offer, with larger units, lower density, and more comprehensive amenities. Waiea and Anaha are finished towers with established resale markets.
What amenities does ʻIlima include?
Over 81,000 sq ft of amenities including lap and resort pools, hot tubs, spa, fitness center, saunas, steam rooms, three on-site restaurants, pool bar, golf simulator, game areas, juice bars, vegetable garden, and a shared 43-foot yacht. Access to most amenities requires Mohala membership.
Did a residence really sell for over $40 million?
Yes. Howard Hughes’ September 4, 2025 release on $1.2 billion in combined launch sales for ʻIlima and Melia says one residence sold for more than $40 million. The release does not name the residence or its size.
Sources
- Ward Village, Residences menu (wardvillage.com/residences/): ʻIlima listed under Now Selling; checked October 28, 2026
- Ward Village news release, “Ward Village Breaks Ground on ʻIlima and Melia,” September 28, 2026 (148 residences, 33 stories)
- Howard Hughes Holdings Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, filed August 5, 2026 (ʻIlima: 93 of 148 units under contract, 63%; completion 2030)
- Howard Hughes Communities news release, September 4, 2025 ($1.2 billion in launch sales; ʻIlima 41% pre-sold on September 1, 2025)
- Howard Hughes Holdings second-quarter 2025 results, August 6, 2025 (pre-sales began in late June 2025)
- HiCentral MLS listings by Ward Village Properties LLC for ʻIlima residences 1005 and 2201 (asking prices and estimated maintenance fees); checked October 28, 2026
- Mohala (mohalahonolulu.com) club and disclaimer pages; checked October 28, 2026
- HCDA planned development permit KAK 23-038 for Ward Village Block E: exhibits submitted June 9, 2023 (unit matrix, recreation space) and staff report of July 20, 2023
- Aloha State Daily, “Progress continues in Ward Village,” October 19, 2026 (Ward Centre closing and demolition)
- Robert A.M. Stern Architects project documentation and Discovery Land Company official communications
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do ʻIlima units cost?
Current pricing is on request from the Ward Village sales team. The dated prices on record are the developer's own MLS listings: on October 28, 2026 its brokerage listed a 1,784 sq ft two-bedroom at $3,935,000 and a 2,533 sq ft three-bedroom at $8,525,000. One residence in ʻIlima and Melia sold for more than $40 million at the 2025 launch.
What is Mohala and is membership required?
Mohala is an exclusive owners' club operated by Discovery Land Company offering resort-style amenities and concierge services. Membership is optional for ʻIlima owners but required to access club restaurants, amenities, and services. Fees and dues are on request; the club's owner sets them.
When will ʻIlima be completed?
Howard Hughes' quarterly report for the period ended June 30, 2026 lists completion in 2030. Ward Village broke ground on September 28, 2026.
How many units does ʻIlima have?
148 total units (Ward Village, September 28, 2026), two to five bedrooms in the June 2023 HCDA permit filing. There are no studios or one-bedroom units.
Who designed ʻIlima?
Robert A.M. Stern Architects designed the architecture with AHL Design as local collaborators. Champalimaud Design created the interiors, and VITA Planning & Landscape Architecture designed the landscaping.
What is Discovery Land Company?
Discovery Land Company is a luxury residential club community developer founded in 1994 by Mike Meldman. They operate exclusive communities including Kukio on Hawaii's Big Island, the Summit Club in Las Vegas, and properties across North America and internationally.
Can I rent my ʻIlima unit?
Rental policies have not been finalized but short-term rentals (under 30 days) are likely prohibited. Verify current AOAO rules before purchase if rental income is part of your investment strategy.
What are the maintenance fees?
The developer's MLS listings carry an estimate of about $1.86 per square foot a month, excluding Mohala membership: $3,321/month on a 1,784 sq ft two-bedroom and $4,714/month on a 2,533 sq ft three-bedroom (October 28, 2026). Mohala club dues are separate.
Is ʻIlima oceanfront?
ʻIlima is oceanfront-adjacent, located on Ala Moana Boulevard directly across from Ala Moana Beach Park. Units will have ocean views but the building is not directly on the beach—Ala Moana Boulevard and the park separate the tower from the water.
How does ʻIlima compare to Waiea and Anaha?
ʻIlima adds resort-style services through Mohala that Waiea/Anaha don't offer, with larger units, lower density, and more comprehensive amenities. Waiea and Anaha are finished towers with established resale markets.
What amenities does ʻIlima include?
Over 81,000 sq ft of amenities including lap and resort pools, hot tubs, spa, fitness center, saunas, steam rooms, three on-site restaurants, pool bar, golf simulator, game areas, juice bars, vegetable garden, and a shared 43-foot yacht. Access to most amenities requires Mohala membership.
Did a residence really sell for over $40 million?
Yes. Howard Hughes' September 4, 2025 release on $1.2 billion in combined launch sales for ʻIlima and Melia says one residence sold for more than $40 million. The release does not name the residence or its size.
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