Kailua Village
A refreshed brand identity that bridges Kailua Village's storied past with its vibrant present, capturing the spirit of aloha for residents and visitors alike
Nestled in the heart of Kailua-Kona, the Kailua Village complex boasts ocean-facing units that capture the island’s signature trade winds. While the location is unbeatable, the visual identity was in need of a refresh—something that honored the history, embraced the present, and reflected the welcoming spirit of aloha.
what we did together
client industry
A personal connection, a professional touch
This project had a unique origin: Studio Simpatico’s founder, Tamara Olson, grew up in Kailua-Kona and recently returned as a homeowner in Kailua Village. After fully renovating her new residence (the Pau Hana Condo), she and her husband Brian—who later joined the complex’s board—recognized an opportunity to modernize the Kailua Village brand. The board agreed, and Studio Simpatico stepped in to create a refreshed identity that resonated with both residents and visitors. Originally built in the 1970s as a Japanese hotel, Kailua Village has evolved into a vibrant mix of full-time residences and short-term vacation rentals.
The Honu: A symbol of home and harmony
At the heart of the new brand is the honu (Hawaiian green sea turtle), a symbol of longevity, guidance, and the deep connection between land and sea. The stylized logo, paired with gently flowing wave patterns, reflects Kailua Village’s oceanfront location and the relaxed yet dynamic energy of island life.
A Fresh, Coastal-Inspired Palette and Typography that Speaks Island Style
We selected a palette that balances warmth, nostalgia, and modernity: deep ocean blues, soft sandy neutrals, and earthy tropical hues like guava and stormy mauve. These colors seamlessly tie into the natural landscape of Kailua-Kona while elevating the brand’s contemporary appeal. The chosen typeface, Hokyaa Sans, carries a hand-crafted feel—clean yet organic, modern yet timeless. Its slightly weathered aesthetic gives a nod to the island’s history while feeling fresh and approachable.
Bringing the Brand to Life
With a strong foundation in place, we extended the new brand identity across multiple touchpoints:
- Signage & Wayfinding: A new entrance sign and property markers reinforce the identity throughout the complex.
- Print Collateral: Elegant letterhead, envelopes, and owner communications give Kailua Village a cohesive, polished look.
- Merchandise & Lifestyle Branding: Hats, tote bags, koozies, and even surfboard decals embody the relaxed, ocean-loving culture of Kailua Village.
- Community Engagement: The brand now stands as a welcoming beacon to both residents and vacationers, enhancing the appeal of the complex for future guests and homeowners alike.
A new chapter for Kailua Village
This rebrand wasn’t just about a new look—it was about capturing the soul of a place that has been home to many, including our own founder. Through a carefully considered design process, we crafted an identity that feels true to Kailua Village’s history while positioning it for a vibrant future.
With a refreshed visual identity, Kailua Village now stands as a modern icon on the Kona coastline—one that honors its past, celebrates its present, and warmly welcomes those who call it home, even for just a little while.
