--- title: "WhiteSpace Architects — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/whitespace-architects-pfvwus-pf~252191084 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~252191084.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "WhiteSpace Architects" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/7cb37552023cc8a2_8281-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "4747 Kilauea Ave, Suite 201, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816, United States" latitude: 21.2887 longitude: -157.8006 phone: "(808) 596-0260" website: http://whitespacearchitects.com/ rating: 5 review_count: 8 best_of_houzz_awards: 12 followers: 190 last_updated: 2026-11-07 --- # WhiteSpace Architects Original Houzz profile: [WhiteSpace Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/whitespace-architects-pfvwus-pf~252191084) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Honolulu, HI - **Serves:** Honolulu, Pearl City, Kailua, Kāne‘ohe, Kaneohe, Hālawa, Waimalu, Hālawa Heights, Aiea, ‘Aiea, Waimānalo, He‘eia, Waimānalo Beach, Maunawili, Big Island, Fort Shafter, Hawaii, Hawaiian Islands, Hickam Afb, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, Oahu, Pearl Harbor - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (8 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 12 awards (2015–2026), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 10,000 Ideabook Saves - Award winning - High-end - 40 years in business WhiteSpace Architects, formerly Philip White Architects, (PKWA) is an established Honolulu-based architectural firm well known throughout the islands for its dedication to innovative, environmentally conscious building design that embraces the local Hawaiian style. Since the company’s inception in 1984, we have developed a reputation for creating beautiful and functional spaces that embody the way our clients live, work, and play. Long before “green building” became a national trend, we were designing buildings that work in harmony with the natural environment in Hawai’i. Our design approach blends client collaboration with innovative technologies and gracious design - unified adeptly to support the ease, comfort and scale of the indoor-outdoor environments so intrinsic to the Hawaiian lifestyle. As a result of this approach, WhiteSpace has been recognized with multiple design awards, demonstrating our ability to work closely with diverse clients and to integrate unique needs and desires to produce results appropriately suited to the style and demands of each project. As one of the leading architectural firms in the state, the WhiteSpace team is client-centered, nimble, accessible, and responsive. By design, the company is small, but powerful. Team members are talented, bright, and hard working with a sincere passion for what they do, allowing the firm to deliver a high level of service and design excellence. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Sustainable Design - Energy-Efficient Homes - 3D Rendering - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Green Building - Space Planning - Universal Design - Multigenerational Homes - 3D Home Design - Custom Home - Remodeling ### Areas Served - Honolulu - Pearl City - Kailua - Kāne‘ohe - Kaneohe - Hālawa - Waimalu - Hālawa Heights - Aiea - ‘Aiea - Waimānalo - He‘eia - Waimānalo Beach - Maunawili - Big Island - Fort Shafter - Hawaii - Hawaiian Islands - Hickam Afb - Kauai - Lanai - Maui - Molokai - Oahu - Pearl Harbor ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | WhiteSpace Architects | | Address | 4747 Kilauea Ave, Suite 201, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816, United States | | Phone | (808) 596-0260 | | Website | http://whitespacearchitects.com/ | | Followers on Houzz | 190 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/whitespacearchitects - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/company/3655352?trk=vsrp\_companies\_res\_name&trkInfo=VSRPsearchId%3A57166935 ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [WhiteSpace Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/whitespace-architects-pfvwus-pf~252191084) - **Website:** http://whitespacearchitects.com/ - **Phone:** (808) 596-0260 ## Credentials - **Best of Houzz:** 12 awards (2015–2026), for Design, Service. **Affiliations** - [National Association of Home Builders](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/national-association-of-home-builders-pfvwus-pf~562065019) - [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471) - [BIA- Hawaii](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/bia-hawaii-pfvwus-pf~815153547) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 8 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 5.0 - Communication: 5.0 - Value: 5.0 ### All 8 reviews **★★★★★ — HU-117432446, Aug. 2020** > Pip White punched the refresh button on our Ossipoff home. The project was to remodel our 30 year old galley kitchen and to make use of a NEVER used formal dining room. We now have stunning open concept kitchen, dining, and living area. Absolutely beautiful and a joy to live in. I think one of the things we most appreciated about Pip, was that he updated and enhanced the original design of our home, making it work for our family and lifestyle. **★★★★★ — Sharlene Bliss, Aug. 2020** > Our decision to go with WhiteSpace was easy based on the first impression made by Pip White years before we decided to build our dream addition. Back then, we'd been working with specialists to replace a wall of aging floor-to-ceiling glass doors without success. I contacted WhiteSpace since they were advocates of innovative and sustainable design. Pip was very helpful, and asked questions about the doors and their location, the area where we live....He recommended a solution, gave us a contact, we got the doors, and are so pleased with them. We weren't clients then, but we knew that when the time came to build our dream studio space, it would be in collaboration with WhiteSpace. Laura and Danielle got our vision for the space, offered ideas and enhancements, were easy to work with and helped us find a great contractor. This project was new to all of us, and that's what made this project so exciting! The space is amazing, and it WOWS us every day. Thanks WhiteSpace. **★★★★★ — Barker Kappelle Construction, LLC, July 2020** > We’ve worked with Whitespace on a few successful projects. Their team is easy to communicate with, which is crucial for successful projects from design to completion. We’ve witnessed how well they work closely with homeowners to achieve their design goals, and never hesitate to recommend their services to clients looking for quality, affordable design. Their designs are clean and modern, and they really keep their finger on the pulse of new materials and finishes. BKC looks forward to a lasting relationship with this established and trustworthy firm. **★★★★★ — Shirley M, July 2020** > Pip and Elyse transformed an outdated house into our dream house! We loved working with the team at WhiteSpace. They were able to help us visualize and create a wonderful home - showcasing the gorgeous ocean views by leveraging and retaining the best part(s) of the existing structure. Pip even made space for a grand piano even though we don't have one.... yet! **★★★★★ — lesliedunbar1, Sept. 2014** > Pip White and his associates did an amazing job adding a kitchen to a hundred year old house. The result is a seamless, functional and beautiful remodel. **★★★★★ — nburchard, Aug. 2014** > Designed the perfect "makule" house. Will start construction next year. Great ideas incorperating traditional and contemporary Hawaiian design. Couldn't be happier5 **★★★★★ — 808kauaidream, May 2014** > Philip White and his team designed our dream second home in Hawaii. They were fantastic at understanding what we hoped to create and translating that into a design that continues to thrill us every time we are there. They guided us well through our choices and helped us "face reality" about things that would drive costs beyond our appetite. They are honest, straightforward, a pleasure to work with. **★★★★★ — malama01, March 2014** > We had a great experience with Phillip White, Laura Ayers and staff when building > our new home in Manoa. They are professional, friendly, responsive to our needs as > well as giving us superb ideas for the creation of our new home. > They worked as a positive team, that really got along on all levels. > Their working environment made us feel comfortable and welcome. > We highly recommend them for any new clients/projects. ## Selected projects - [Working with WhiteSpace Architects](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/working-with-whitespace-architects-pj-vj~6312183) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 1 - [Kailua Cliff Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kailua-cliff-residence-pj-vj~5421612) - Location: Kailua, HI - Photos: 6 - Description: Perched atop a windward bluff, the Kailua cliff home combines an exquisite blend of modern simplicity and Hawaiian warmth. In harmony with its blufftop setting, thoughtful design makes the most of the site’s breathtaking 360-degree views. A soothing interior of warm woods flows seamlessly into tranquil outdoor spaces, melding the striking home with its natural environment. Crisp detailing, translucent surfaces, and contemporary furnishings allow the unparalleled views to shine in each room. The… - [Portlock Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/portlock-residence-pj-vj~331100) - Location: Honolulu, HI - Photos: 13 - Description: The eclectic contemporary style of this Portlock home draws heavily from the traditional Hawaiian architectural values of openness, understated grace, modesty, and respect for oneʻs neighbors. The entry to the home takes you over a koi pond on a rock bridge, surrounded by Hawaiian plants, creating a place of calm and serenity as soon as you walk through the front gate. Deep shaded lanais (back porches) open the home to the backyard and surrounding landscape while also protecting the interior of… - [Waialae Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/waialae-residence-pj-vj~5421739) - Location: Honolulu, HI - Photos: 7 - Description: Renovation of this mid-century modern home included opening disjointed spaces, allowing for increased flow and accessibility. Clean lines and a calming neutral palette permeate the dining, kitchen, and living spaces, while renovated decks on the main floor and roof encourage al fresco dining and relaxation. - [Benefits of Great Design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/benefits-of-great-design-pj-vj~6391696) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 1 - [Aerial Dance Studio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/aerial-dance-studio-pj-vj~6391650) - Location: Kailua, HI - Photos: 5 - Description: A unique home fitness studio on Oahu with a footprint of just 270 square feet. Intended primarily for aerial dance – where practitioners hang from apparatus suspended from a ceiling height of at least 17 feet – the studio was compactly designed for efficient usage of space. Still, it can easily accommodate two people practicing simultaneously on suspended silk cloths, from an intricate pulley system or even a trapeze. The mirrored studio is also used by the owner for yoga and ballet barre work.… - [Diamond Head Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/diamond-head-residence-pj-vj~331133) - Location: Honolulu, HI - Photos: 11 - Description: Confronted with a house that was closed off to the outdoors, the owner's wanted to change the personality of this Kaalawai Beach home and take it back to the gracious elegance of kama'aina style living. The renovation opened up the kitchen and other living areas to the ocean allowing the owners to enjoy the coastline views and take advantage of natural daylight. The redesigned home creates shady places to gather outdoors and the cool island breezes eliminate the need for air-conditioning. - [Wailupe Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wailupe-residence-pj-vj~6481560) - Location: Honolulu, HI - Photos: 5 - Description: While the Wailupe family loved their longtime home, however, the mid-century design featured a kitchen that discouraged gathering and communal living. While fairly long and narrow, the original kitchen lacked storage space, further crowding the limited counter space and making the area feel congested and cluttered. Further, the original design also did not take advantage of natural lighting or natural ventilation. WhiteSpace Architects, led by Principal Pip White, believed a transformation would… - [Kealaolu Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kealaolu-residence-pj-vj~968309) - Location: Honolulu, HI - Photos: 13 - Description: This lovely Hawaiian-style residence was built in the Kahala region of Oahu, overlooking the Waialae Golf Course. The design was a long linear house that stretched along the golf course frontage with a multitude of openings to support the tropical environment and lifestyle. The house was newly constructed with the classic kamaʻaina feel and elegant finishes for a refined and graceful home that blends harmoniously into one of Honolulu’s premier neighborhoods. - [Our Design Aesthetic](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/our-design-aesthetic-pj-vj~6391728) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 1 - [Kaua'i Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kaua-i-residence-pj-vj~417760) - Location: Kilauea, HI - Photos: 16 - Description: Built upon a bluff to take advantage of the stunning coastline and Kilauea Lighthouse, this home opens up to the natural beauty surrounding it. Large open living spaces, a swimming pool, and private driveway all help to make this home ideal for relaxing and spending time with family. - [Noela Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/noela-residence-pj-vj~331109) - Location: Honolulu, HI - Photos: 12 - Description: Built in the foothills of Diamond Head on a sloping lot, the home was designed to take advantage of the views afforded to this unique and timeless location. The residence combines plantation-style architecture with a more modern outdoor lifestyle. The large front porch, that has become synonymous with Hawaiian living, and the backyard pool are connected by the modern amenities and old-school charm of the kitchen and family area. - [Kahala Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kahala-residence-pj-vj~452181) - Location: Honolulu, HI - Photos: 4 - Description: Built for a family who had recently re-located to Hawaiʻi, the home has an open floor plan with a relaxed "island style" feeling. The lauhala accents, easy flow between indoors and outdoors, and a backyard oasis all contribute to the homeowners truly feeling that they live in their own personal paradise. - [Molokai Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/molokai-residence-pj-vj~331108) - Location: Kaunakakai, HI - Photos: 7 - Description: The renovation of the Plantation Managerʻs home in Kualapuʻu, Molokaʻi demonstrates how to integrate the best of quintessential plantation style with the finest of modern design sensibilities. The interior was gutted and rebuilt with careful re-organization of the interior spaces and re-composition of the exterior fenestration. - [Nuuanu Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/nuuanu-residence-pj-vj~331107) - Location: Kaneohe, HI - Photos: 12 - Description: Nestled in the side of Nuʻuanu Valley in Honolulu, this gracious local-style home reflects the importance of designing with the surrounding environment in mind. The residence sits upon several terraces, taking advantage of the natural topography to include views of the nearby Nuʻuanu Stream and the surrounding forest. With its sweeping front porch and back courtyard area, this home was created for family living and relaxation. - [Manoa Valley Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/manoa-valley-residence-pj-vj~417553) - Location: Honolulu, HI - Photos: 11 - Description: This newly built home in Manoa Valley is nestled into a neighborhood of older Manoa homes and blends in with simple elegance. It showcases how a modestly sized home can be designed in the same classically elegant Hawaiian-style that our firm is known for. The open floor plan, breakfast bar at the kitchen, and protected backyard all provide areas for a young family to grow up together. - [Maunalani Heights Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/maunalani-heights-renovation-pj-vj~596028) - Location: Honolulu, HI - Photos: 8 - Description: This lovely home on the hillside of Maunalani Heights, overlooking Honolulu, was in a great location but in need of repair and modernization. The house was a typical two-story home from the 50’s, with a compartmentalized floor plan, small rooms and a layout that didn’t take advantage of the spectacular scenery. The owners are also great entertainers, and the home provided no real space to accommodate guests. The renovation included a complete rearrangement of the interior layout - creating an op… - [North Shore Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/north-shore-residence-pj-vj~1333724) - Location: Haleiwa, HI - Photos: 7 - Description: The owners of the North Shore of Hawai'i residence asked for “an elegant house that happens to be on the beach.” The gentle, open, tropical architecture with Asian design motifs and a contemporary floor plan create a home that connects back to a time of true Hawaiian architecture. - [Palaoa Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/palaoa-residence-pj-vj~1226320) - Location: Honolulu, HI - Photos: 6 - [Oasis Pools](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oasis-pools-pj-vj~6308820) - Location: Honolulu, HI - Photos: 6 [See all 23 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/whitespace-architects-pfvwus-pf~252191084) ## Community Q&A **Q: What pebble flooring did you use for this? It looks perfect!** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hi Dianne. Thanks for your interest! This pebble floor was one of the standard sheet products through Bella Pietra, but Daltile probably has a similar product. I hope that helps! Aloha. **Q: Little palm on the left ??** *(in Photo Questions)* What's the little palm on the left ?? A: I believe it's a fan palm. **Q: Hi, is this paperwall or ceramic? Tanks** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hello. This is a natural wall covering. **Q: Was this featured on a Hawaii Five-0 episode?** *(in Photo Questions)* It's gorgeous and it reminds me of something on saw on Hawaii Five-0. A: We would be very proud to know that it had appeared on television because we think it is a beautiful home and a great representation of our work supporting the indoor-outdoor environments so intrinsic to the Hawaiian lifestyle. However, after we complete our work and the home is built, we aren’t as involved. So we really can’t say whether or not it appeared on the television show. **Q: Exterior paint color please?** *(in Photo Questions)* Would like to know the colors of the paint used for exterior A: Hi - The paint was all Sherwin Williams, with the following colors: Field (walls/rafters/eaves): Link Gray SW 6200 Trim/Fascia: Escape Gray SW 6185 Railings/Posts/Beam & Entry Ceiling: Dover White SW 6385 Skirt & Garage Fence: Less Brown SW 6040 Front & Kitchen Door: Surf Green SW 6473 Thanks for your interest in our work! **Q: Love to get the color info for this!** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hi - The paint was all Sherwin Williams, with the following colors: Field (walls/rafters/eaves): Link Gray SW 6200 Trim/Fascia: Escape Gray SW 6185 Railings/Posts/Beam & Entry Ceiling: Dover White SW 6385 Skirt & Garage Fence: Less Brown SW 6040 Front & Kitchen Door: Surf Green SW 6473 Thanks for your interest in our work! --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-11-07.*