What is the Regen Maui Project?
Regen Maui is on a mission to lead the design and build of Maui’s very first Living Building Challenge-certified affordable home. This isn’t just about constructing a house; it’s about proving that creating healthy, nurturing living spaces is not only possible but essential—for the occupants, the community, and the environment. These homes don’t just sit on the land; they actively restore and regenerate it. By pushing this initiative forward, Regen Maui aims to shake up the traditional norms of home construction on the island and inspire a ripple effect of regenerative and resilient building practices that extend far beyond Maui’s shores.
Main Benefits of the Regen Maui Project
Here’s what sets these Living Buildings apart from the usual designs:
- Revive ecosystems and bring nature back into balance
- Honor and embrace cultural heritage and a strong sense of place
- Foster food security through thoughtful design
- Obtain all energy needs from the sun—yes, 100% solar power
- Capture and store carbon to fight climate change
- Replenish aquifers, protecting vital water resources
- Exclude toxic materials for healthier homes
- Generate zero waste during construction and operation
- Create healthy indoor environments with clean air and natural light
- Stimulate local economies by involving community members
- Uphold fairness and justice in every step
- Embrace aesthetic beauty that inspires and motivates
The Design Phase: Community at the Core
The first six months focus on designing the home, and community participation is absolutely key here. The final design isn’t just about ticking boxes for the Living Building Challenge—it’s a celebration of culture, place, and the community’s needs and priorities. Prefabricated, panelized components will be used to speed up construction and keep costs affordable. But beyond the technical stuff, the real success lies in community ownership and advocacy. When the community is involved from the start, their commitment turns this vision into reality.
Building the Home and Local Capacity
Months six through twelve mark the construction phase, which is about more than just putting up walls. It’s a hands-on opportunity to build local skills and expertise. Architects, engineers, and builders from Maui team up with students from UH Maui College’s regenerative design and apprenticeship programs. This collaboration not only ensures quality construction but also strengthens the local workforce, making regenerative design knowledge accessible and practical for future projects.
Understanding the Living Building Challenge Petals
The Living Building Challenge (LBC) is more than a certification; it’s a philosophy and advocacy platform that encourages buildings to mimic nature’s genius. Think of a flower—rooted in its place, perfectly adapted to its environment, fulfilling all its needs without harm. The LBC breaks down into several “petals,” each representing a core value:
- Place Petal: Reconnects buildings with local ecology and community stories, promoting pedestrian-friendly development.
- Water Petal: Rethinks water use, treating wastewater as a valuable resource.
- Energy Petal: Pushes for renewable energy and energy efficiency.
- Health + Happiness Petal: Creates spaces that support well-being with clean air and natural light.
- Materials Petal: Encourages non-toxic, regenerative, and transparent material use.
- Equity Petal: Prioritizes fairness and inclusivity in communities.
- Beauty Petal: Recognizes beauty and connection to nature as vital for conservation motivation.
Project Impact: Aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 15: Life on Land
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Why Regen Maui Matters Now More Than Ever
On August 8, 2023, Lahaina faced a devastating fire that destroyed over 2,000 homes, displaced more than 6,000 people, and tragically took over 100 lives. This heartbreaking event underscores the urgent need to rethink how homes are built. Imagine a future where every home not only shelters but actively contributes to the well-being of its community and the planet. Where biophilic design—connecting people with nature—is the standard, not the exception. That’s what “good” looks like, and Regen Maui is lighting the way.
