Business Details
Expert Landscape Architecture & Urban Design
At Ki Concepts, we are driven by a passion for creating landscapes that harmonize culture, ecology, and utility. Our team draws inspiration from Native Hawaiian land management practices, integrating traditional wisdom with modern design to craft sustainable solutions that honor the land and water. With decades of collective experience, we specialize in restoring ecological systems and uplifting cultural narratives through place-based design. Our approach emphasizes resilience, fostering connections between communities and their natural environments. We believe in the power of design to protect and enhance nature's regenerative capacity for future generations.Our work spans diverse scales, from urban parks to cultural landmarks, always prioritizing ecological integrity and cultural relevance. As an award-winning studio, we are committed to creating green spaces that serve as ecological and cultural nodes within built environments. Our team includes certified professionals with expertise in landscape architecture, urban design, and sustainable practices. We strive to design spaces that act as moments of renewal, bridging past and future through thoughtful design. Our dedication to excellence has earned recognition for innovative projects that balance environmental stewardship with functional beauty.
Services
Landscape Architecture
Urban Design
Ecological Restoration
Cultural Design
Sustainable Solutions
Highlights and features
- We integrate Native Hawaiian land ethics with modern sustainable design principles
- Our team includes certified landscape architects with regional ecological expertise
- Award-winning studio recognized for innovative place-based design solutions
- Specialized in creating ecological and cultural nodes within urban environments
- Proven track record in restoring natural systems while honoring cultural heritage
Associations and certifications
- ASLA
- CLARB
- LEED AP
Services
Landscape Architecture
We create functional, sustainable landscapes that honor cultural heritage and ecological systems. Our designs integrate native plants, water conservation techniques, and traditional Hawaiian land management principles. Projects range from public parks to institutional campuses, always prioritizing environmental stewardship and community needs.
Urban Design
Our urban design solutions create walkable, resilient communities that connect people to nature and culture. We focus on sustainable infrastructure, public spaces, and mixed-use developments that reflect local identity. Our work enhances urban ecosystems while improving quality of life for residents and visitors.
Ecological Restoration
We specialize in restoring degraded ecosystems to their natural state, focusing on native species reintroduction and watershed protection. Our methods combine scientific research with traditional ecological knowledge to create self-sustaining environments. Projects include wetland restoration, coastal rehabilitation, and invasive species management.
Cultural Design
Our cultural design practice preserves and celebrates Native Hawaiian traditions through place-based design. We incorporate traditional agricultural systems, sacred site preservation, and storytelling elements into modern landscapes. This approach creates spaces that educate visitors while honoring indigenous knowledge and practices.
Sustainable Solutions
We develop innovative sustainability strategies that reduce environmental impact while enhancing functionality. Our solutions include rainwater harvesting systems, permeable paving, and climate-resilient design. Each project balances ecological responsibility with practical needs, creating long-term value for clients and communities.
People
Joel Kurokawa
Principal, Landscape Architect
ASLA and CLARB-certified landscape architect with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii-focused design. Specializes in integrating traditional Hawaiian land management with modern sustainability practices. Leads the firm's commitment to ecological restoration and cultural preservation.
Kyle Sasaki
Senior Landscape Architect
LEED AP-certified designer with expertise in urban ecology and sustainable site development. Brings 15 years of regional experience creating resilient landscapes that address climate change challenges while maintaining cultural connections through design.
Matthew Higa
Project Designer
ULI member with specialization in community-engaged design processes. Focuses on creating educational landscapes that teach ecological principles through interactive elements. Combines technical expertise with cultural sensitivity in every project he develops.
Brandon Halkitis
Landscape Designer
ASLA member dedicated to creating spaces that reflect Hawaii's unique ecological and cultural identity. Expert in native plant selection and traditional Hawaiian agricultural techniques. Works closely with communities to ensure designs meet both functional and cultural needs.
Zoe Angelopulo
Landscape Designer
Specializes in creating design solutions that bridge modern requirements with ancestral land stewardship practices. Focuses on water conservation systems and culturally significant plantings that maintain ecological balance while honoring indigenous traditions.
Questions
What makes your design approach unique?
We combine Native Hawaiian land management ethics with modern sustainability practices to create landscapes that honor cultural heritage while addressing contemporary environmental challenges.
What types of projects do you specialize in?
We focus on landscape architecture, urban design, ecological restoration, and cultural preservation projects throughout Hawaii and the Pacific region.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?
We use native plants, water conservation systems, and climate-resilient materials while applying traditional ecological knowledge to create self-sustaining environments.
Can you work on both public and private projects?
Yes, we have experience with diverse project types including government facilities, educational institutions, commercial developments, and community spaces.
How do you engage with local communities?
We conduct collaborative design workshops and cultural consultations to ensure our projects reflect community values and traditional knowledge systems.
What is your design philosophy?
We believe in creating 'kpuka' - spaces of renewal that connect people to nature and culture through thoughtful, ecologically responsible design.
