What it Feels Like to be Ward Village’s First Residents

Waiea, the first building to be completed at Ward Village, opened its doors to new residents on Nov. 17.

By Rachel Ross

Photo: Courtesy of The Howard Hughes Corp.

Andy Riley knows Kaka‘ako. He has lived in the area for quite some time and appreciates the area’s convenience and proximity to things like Ala Moana Park, and countless shopping and dining options. And he was one of the first to buy when Waiea, the first building to be completed at Ward Village, came to market more than two years ago.

The building opened its doors to new residents on Nov. 17, and Riley is finally living in the three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath home that he anxiously watched progress. What does he think? “I’m so excited,” says the happy new resident. “It’s far greater than anything I ever thought I’d live in.”

He’s now retired from a career in pharmacy and auto body repair, and so he and his wife have plenty of time to enjoy the amenities of the place.

When a building with 174 residences opens its doors, one might expect the move-in process to be complicated and filled with long waits. Riley says that while moving can be stressful and chaotic, the Waiea management team did a great job of anticipating potential problems and making the move easy for him.

The Howard Hughes Corp’s sales center included model units in the IBM Building, and we asked Riley if they were an accurate portrayal of the final product. He says they were spot on. “No surprises. The interior is amazing, and I love the cutting-edge, contemporary style.”

He doesn’t only like the interior. Residents also have access to an infinity edge lap pool, fitness center, children’s playground, dog walk, private theater, library, golf simulator, spa, as well as outdoor lounges and entertaining spaces. The new resident’s favorite thing so far? The Owner’s Lounge. “I’ve enjoyed several sunsets from the Owner’s Lounge and had a chance to meet neighbors and make new friends.”