The Dilks Residence illustrates the importance of thoughtful design and preservation. By blending traditional Hawaiian design with modern features and respect for nature, this home tells the story of Lanikai’s development and the beauty of island living. Today, it remains an important part of Hawaii’s architectural history and a symbol of Ossipoff’s talent in combining modern design with cultural and environmental awareness.
The History of the Dilks Home
The story of the Dilks home began in the 1930s with the construction of the Hau Cottage, a small beach retreat. When John and Patricia Dilks bought the property in 1973, they wanted a bigger family home that would match the existing cottage and the old hau trees scattered around the lot. They approached architect Vladimir Ossipoff with ideas for a design that reflected older Hawaiian homes featuring open porches and classic elements like slanted roofs. Ossipoff, who was nearing the end of his career, agreed to take on the project. His design kept the Hau Cottage, preserved the hau trees, and introduced an L-shaped layout that emphasized living both indoors and outdoors, which is perfect for a beachfront setting.
Architectural Features of the Dilks Residence
The main house is a great example of Ossipoff’s Hawaiian Regional style, focusing on fitting in with nature and being practical for Hawaii’s warm weather. Some key features include:
- Double-Pitched Roofs: These steep roofs shed rain easily and give the house a unique look.
- Natural Materials: The redwood siding blends well with the surroundings, and the concrete floors are both strong and keep the house cool.
- Outset Sill Vent Windows: These specially designed windows stick out a bit, allowing natural light and breeze in while keeping the wind and ocean spray away.
- Lanai Areas: Two large lanais (porches)—one facing the mountains and the other facing the ocean—connect the indoor spaces with the outdoors.
- The L-shaped design creates a lovely lawn and offers views of the Mokulua Islands, making the house feel open and peaceful. The living and dining areas lead right to the ocean-facing lanai, while the bedroom wing provides privacy and beautiful garden views.
Preserving the Hau Cottage and Trees
The Hau Cottage, built in the 1930s, was kept and redesigned as part of the whole property. Its simple construction and wide eaves represent the basic style of early beach homes in Lanikai. Ossipoff used the cottage as inspiration, helping to maintain a consistent look throughout the property.
The eight hau trees, some over a hundred years old, were also important to Ossipoff’s design. These twisting trees provide natural shade and add to the property’s beauty. Ossipoff even changed his original plan to protect one of the biggest hau trees, showing how much he cared about maintaining the site’s natural character.
The Legacy of Vladimir Ossipoff
Vladimir Ossipoff (1907–1998) is known as the “master of Hawaiian modernism.” He combined modern architecture with Hawaii’s unique culture and environment. The Dilks Residence represents a return to his Hawaiian Regional style, showcasing a blend of the past and present. It’s one of his last residential projects and has been featured in exhibitions and books about his work, including “Hawaiian Modern: The Architecture of Vladimir Ossipoff.”
Historic Lanikai
Lanikai started as a beach getaway for residents from Honolulu in the 1920s. Early homes like the Hau Cottage were simple vacation spots. By the mid-20th century, Lanikai turned into a neighborhood for year-round living. The Dilks Residence captures this change. Its design includes the open-air style of earlier cottages while meeting the needs of a modern family. By preserving the Hau Cottage and its trees, the property pays homage to the neighborhood’s history while serving as a beautiful example of Hawaiian architecture.
