The historic home Lihiwai, located in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a striking example of 1920s Hawaiian architecture, embodying its era’s opulence and cultural blending. Built in 1928 by George Robert Carter, the second governor of the Territory of Hawaii, the estate was designed in the Spanish Colonial Revival style by Hardie Phillip of the renowned architectural firm Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue and Associates. The house spans over 26,000 square feet, making it one of the largest private residences in Hawaii, rivaled only by Iolani Palace.
The residence reflects the “vintage years” of Hawaiian architecture, a period when regional design integrated local materials, tropical landscaping, and Asian-inspired elements. Notable architectural features include a double-pitched hipped roof with Spanish terracotta tiles, carved teak eaves, a loggia supported by concrete columns, and interior elements such as coffered ceilings, carved wooden beams, and ohi‘a parquet floors. The house also contained advanced amenities for its time, including an elevator, an internal telephone system, and a solarium.
Carter and his wife, Helen Strong Carter, lived at Lihiwai until they died in 1933 and 1945, respectively. The Carters were instrumental figures in Hawaii’s transition from monarchy to territorial governance. George Carter’s tenure as governor saw him championing economic modernization and infrastructural development, while Helen was known for her philanthropic efforts and social leadership. The estate hosted many prominent guests and dignitaries, further cementing its status as a center of political and social influence.
The estate’s name, “Lihiwai,” translates to “water’s edge,” reflecting its location near three streams and its lush landscaping. The grounds include features such as a Chinese garden with a moon gate, man-made waterfalls, and reflecting pools. The integration of natural elements with man-made structures exemplifies the period’s landscape architecture, adding to the estate’s grandeur.
Today, Lihiwai is celebrated not only for its architectural significance but also as a testament to a transformative period in Hawaii’s history, connecting the territorial era’s governance and economy with its rich cultural heritage. Its preservation offers a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped Hawaii’s identity during the early 20th century.
Source: National Park Service https://npgallery.nps.gov/NRHP/GetAsset/d268cf86-f991-4a26-a82c-b604ca001a3f
