Private home designed by USS Arizona Memorial architect for sale
This year, more than 600,000 people will walk through the mid-century-modern entrance to the Honolulu Zoo, designed by Austrian-born architect Alfred Preis.
In that same time period, a million and a half people will visit the USS Arizona Memorial, also conceived by Preis, who was interned at the Sand Island Detainment Camp in the months following the attack on Pearl Harbor.
In the 53 years Preis spent on Oahu after fleeing German rule, he led the Hawaii State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, designed big commercial properties like downtown’s Emerald Building, and even built a few homes. Right now, in a rare standard sale, you can buy one of those historic homes—a small part of Preis’ architectural legacy that the masses can’t access.
Listed at $925,000 fee simple, the Manoa property boasts four bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, and a striking aqua color scheme endemic to the period. The house hasn’t been renovated since its 1952 completion and is being sold as-is (read: needs TLC). That said, the largely un-retouched property presents a unique opportunity for new owners looking to restore it faithfully.
Situated on a quarter-acre plot tucked against the eastern edge of the valley, the house feels both open and secluded. Large stretches of windows overlook nearby Waahila Ridge, and with 230 square feet of lanai, there’s plenty of space to enjoy the view. At the same time, the home’s elevation and lush landscaping help the property to retain a sense of privacy.
Open House: 12/8 from 2-5 p.m, by appointment only.
Contact: Ann K. Noguchi from Marcus and Associates, 839-7446
MLS: 201335988 (visit link and enter MLS# for more photos)
