April 2, 2024 - Mililani

Aloha, Friend!

Welcome to Mililani, an All-American City well-known for its civic and community engagement. We are thrilled to have you join us!

This week, we've got some exciting stories lined up for you:

  • Design in the Islands: Immerse yourself in the beauty of house designs from 1970 through 2010.

  • Vibrant Lifestyle: Join us in the popular game of Pickle Board!

  • Oahu Neighborhoods: Discover why the National Civic League has recognized Mililani.

  • Real Estate in Honolulu: How much have homes in Mililani appreciated in the last 50 years?

Design in the Islands: House designs from 1970 through 2010

Mililani, developed in 1968 as Castle and Cooke's flagship master-planned community, comprises more than 16,000 homes in various design styles. Let’s explore the architectural styles of 1970 through 2010 and see some examples in Mililani.

The Hawaiian Plantation Architecture style, which originated from sugarcane plantation camps, became popular in the 1970s and 1980s. Wide-hipped roofs and deep-bracketed eaves characterize this style.

In the 1980s, contemporary architecture with clean lines and simplicity gained popularity. The 1990s saw the rise of Neo-Colonial architecture, which features traditional colonial design elements like columns, shutters, and brick facades.

In the 2000s, Neo-Eclectic homes incorporating elements from various architectural styles became the trend. These homes drew inspiration from Mediterranean, Tudor, Colonial, and other styles to create unique and eclectic designs.

Today, architecture is concerned with innovation, smart technology, and sustainability. Architects are pushing boundaries and using cutting-edge technology and sustainable materials to create functional and environmentally friendly buildings. The result is an exciting and forward-thinking new way of designing.

Here is a sampling of homes built in Mililani from 1970 through 2005.

Image source: Hawaii Multiple Listing Service. Built 1970.

Image source: Hawaii Multiple Listing Service. Built 1982.

Image source: Hawaii Multiple Listing Service. Built 1992.

Image source: Hawaii Multiple Listing Service. Built 2000.

Image source: Hawaii Multiple Listing Service. Built 2005.

Vibrant Lifestyles: Pickle Board, Anyone?

Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport. It’s social, easy to learn, and has the potential to become a fast-paced, competitive sport. Mililani currently has eight pickleball courts; 6 are open play with no required reservations, and 2 require reservations, which can be made at Mililani Town Association WebTrac.

Want to know how to play the game? Watch the video to master the basics.

Oahu Neighborhoods: Mililani, Recognized by the National Civic League

So what is the National Civic League, and why does it matter?

The National Civic League was founded in 1894 as the National Municipal League following the gathering of civic leaders to address “incompetence, inefficiency, patronage and corruption in local governments.

They aim to “advance civil engagement, to create equitable, thriving communities.”

Recognized as an “All-American City in 1986, Mililani has developed into a multi-generational community with activities for all ages, schools, parks, seven recreation centers, multiple pools, shopping areas, banks, a post office, places of worship, and a vital town association. It is the only community in Hawaii to be given this distinctive award.

Read below to know more about the “All-American City” award.

The National Civic League’s All-America City Award has celebrated the best in American civic innovation since 1949. The Award, bestowed yearly on 10 communities (more than 500 in all), recognizes the work of communities in using inclusive civic engagement to address critical issues and create stronger connections among residents, businesses and nonprofit and government leaders. Cities, counties, tribes and community organizations of all types are invited to apply for the annual designation.

The All-America City Award shines a spotlight on the incredible work taking place in communities across the country. By celebrating the best in local innovation, civic engagement and cross-sector collaboration, the All-America City Award remind us of the potential within every community to tackle tough issues and create real change.

Real Estate in Honolulu: What’s Happening in Mililani?

As we look back over the last half-century, many things have changed in the world of real estate. One of the most significant changes has been the steady appreciation of home values. Let’s take a look at a couple of Mililani's sales!

A 1970s-style home like this one sold for $27,000 in 1972 and $1,030,000 in 2023. The sold property is a 3-bedroom/2-bath home on 8,627 square feet of land, zoned R-5 Residential, in average to above-average condition, and at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac.

Image source: Hawaii Central Multiple Listing Service

A 1980s-style home like this sold for $89,000 in 1985 and $850,000 in 2024. The sold property is a 3-bedroom/2-bathroom home on less than 4,000 square feet of land, zoned A-2 Medium Density Apartment, in fair condition, and close to the Mililani Town Center.

Image source: Hawaii Central Multiple Listing Service

That’s all for this week’s highlights. For design, lifestyle, and real estate tips, visit our website.

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