Hawaiian Hall, Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum
Honolulu, Hawaii
The Bishop Museum is a history and science museum that boasts the world’s largest collection of Polynesian cultural artifacts. Founded in 1889 by Charles Reed Bishop, the museum has expanded to include millions of additional artifacts, documents, and photographs about the cultures of Hawaii and other Pacific Islands.
RAA was asked to undertake the reinstallation of exhibitions on three floors in the Hawaiian Hall. We worked closely with the Bishop team to achieve several outcomes for the museum: to interpret Hawaiian history and culture from a native perspective for the first time in history; to restore and make accessible a historic structure; to build audience and strengthen community relationships.
The 12,000-square-foot Hawaiian Hall is considered a masterwork of late Victorian museum design. Within this space, RAA sought to provide a sensitive restoration of the physical interior of the historic gallery, while invisibly outfitting it with state-of-the-art technology. The exhibits were designed with layers of complexity that offered those with great knowledge the pleasure of recognition, and those with less, the chance to learn more.
Inspiration for the design came from conversations with a cross-section of the Hawaiian community—Native Hawaiian artists, scholars, educators, elders, stakeholders, and board members—who shared their stories, experiences, knowledge, perspectives, and dreams for the Hawaiian Hall.
At the opening in August 2009, the results of RAA’s team efforts were universally applauded. The stunning beauty of the restored native koa wood is complemented by an interpretive experience that underscores the Hawaiian culture’s connection to the land and sea, and pays tribute to a culture that is still very much alive and growing.
Size 12,000 square feet
Year 2009
AwardsIndustrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), International Design Excellence Award (IDEA): Finalist, EnvironmentsAIA Honolulu Design Award: Merit Award
“Gives any visitors an appreciation for the land and people and what they are fighting to protect and preserve.”
—Sheila J.
“A day at the museum”
@lady_leucadia
“Great place to learn about the Hawaiian history and Polynesian history.”
@_xycy_
“Even the wood craftsmanship that houses all of these Polynesian wonders is so next level.”
@delar0cha
“Really incredible afternoon learning about the history of Hawaii and the islands of Polynesia, Melanesia, and Micronesia.”
@tradersampson
“So much to see and absorb, but what an awesome reminder of the rich culture and heritage we are a part of.”
@ikunagroup
“Soaking in some Hawaiian history.”
@alexperrault
“The Bishop Museum was one of the most beautiful museums I’ve ever been in.”
@mojavemonki3000
“A treasure for anyone who wants to see the rich depth of Hawaii and Polynesian culture.”
—Clark C.
“Stunningly gorgeous, and creates a lovely restful change of pace while you are visiting Waikiki.”
—Debra R.
“A well thought-out take on Hawaiian culture and history.”
—Elijah M.
“Jam packed with not only a deep cultural history of Hawaii, but of nature and science.”
—KG
“Reminds me of a mini Hawaiian Smithsonian.”
—P.
“A phenomenal place to witness Hawaiian history.”
—Ronald F.
“An impeccably stimulating experience from start to finish.”
—Stephanie R.
“The visual storytelling is incredible.”
—Shenay N.
“A deep and educational dive into Hawaiian history and artifacts.”
—Ben L.
“The museum is huge and truly fascinating, with a strong Hawaiian character in every corner.”
—Chiara R.
“A meaningful look into Hawaii’s history and culture. It’s a place that feels both educational and enjoyable.”
—Collin J.
“The Bishop is one of those museums where you are amazed by the architecture and the history.”
—Erica C.
“It was especially touching to see how much the people who built this place loved native Hawaiian culture and traditions.”
—J L
“My visit allowed me to look beyond the beauty of Hawai’i and understand the injustice performed on the natives over time.”
—Matthias S.
“The scale of the suspended sea creatures gives context and inspires awe.”
—Shirl H.
“I truly felt the spirit of Aloha.”
—Yamaguchi M.