Urban Works Inc. was formed in 1984 by a collective of young architects and staff in a warehouse space in Kakaʻako, to pursue a practice centered on the thoughtful and careful consideration of the client’s needs and objectives. As the firm has evolved in size and experience, it continues to produce a diverse range of award-winning projects.
The office continues to find inspiration and solutions in the vernacular, the industrial, and the everyday. Amidst the rich history of Hawaiʻi, the firm has cultivated an awareness of site, whether a project is situated in an urban or natural context.
After over 30 years, the two founding principals, John Ida and Lorrin Matsunaga, still maintain the office as a collaborative practice focused on creating meaningful connections between people and places, while maintaining Urban Works’ identity as a nimble and inventive design firm.