New 43-story condo planned for Kakaako

By now you've heard that Kewalo Development, a subsidiary of A&B Properties Inc., has unveiled its plans for a 43-story, upscale residential condo between the Hawaiki and Koolani buildings. It looks nice, but what's going to make it different from the other towers in the area?

In keeping with the trend to go green, A&B is incorporating a variety of energy-efficient technologies, including:

A heat recovery system to centrally heat hot water for all residences as well as the pool

LED lighting in the common areas

Lighting systems in the common areas to enable use as needed

Dual air conditioning controls in two- and three-bedroom residences

Low-emissivity, dual-paned windows

As the plans progress, the design team will continue to seek alternate means of reducing energy and water use.

Interior rendering from A&B Properties

One of the selling points is its walkability—the average Walkscore of condos in this area is 80—but they are featuring a lot of athletic/recreational amenities in the building, as well: A recreation deck with pool, spa, barbeques, private cabanas and lawn area; a club room with a full kitchen; a fitness center with separate weight and yoga rooms; a multi-purpose room; and a private movie theater. There will also be two guest suites for visitors, which is new and unusual for any condos here.

The tower, named Waihonua, will include 345 one-, two- and three-bedroom units that will start at $400,000, $565,000 and $720,000, fee simple. There will also be seven penthouse units.

The project also includes a 73-unit affordable rental condo for seniors that will be located about a block away.

Construction is slated to begin by the end of 2012, and completed in two years. The sales office is scheduled to open this month to take reservations.