Mary Kawena Pukui Learning Commons
Building Progress Updates

We are excited to share updates on the ongoing construction of the Mary Kawena Pukui Learning Commons. This new space is set to transform our campus and inspire future generations of learners. The project is progressing smoothly, and we are thrilled to keep you informed as we move forward.

Summer 2025

In the interview below, Max, a student in the Class of 2026, speaks with Director of Physical Plant Nate Armour at the construction site of the new Mary Kawena Pukui Learning Commons. Armour outlines key construction updates, including a 12,000-square-foot covered perimeter extension with integrated power and data, designed to support outdoor collaboration and student use.

The area between Alexander Hall and the Learning Commons has already been fully regraded to align with the first floor, allowing the interior café to extend outdoors. Previously unused planter beds were replaced with terrace rock walls that serve as informal seating. Additional features include widened pedestrian walkways and new stadium-style seating at the entrance, creating more functional, student-friendly gathering spaces across the site.

Watch this video for more updates:

May 2025

Exciting momentum continues on the Mary Kawena Pukui Learning Commons as construction progresses on multiple fronts. Roofing work is nearing completion, giving full shape to the building’s distinctive form and providing critical protection as interior finishes advance.

The courtyard between Alexander Hall and the Pukui Learning Commons is also taking shape, with site development now clearly revealing the structure and intent of the future student social space. This area will serve as a vital connector and gathering spot at the heart of campus.

On the exterior, wall cladding is well underway, including installation of the stone veneer carefully selected to complement the architectural character of nearby Pauahi and Cooke Halls.

Inside the building, interior painting has begun, introducing playful and vibrant color schemes – especially noticeable in the second-floor flex rooms and conference spaces. These splashes of color are a preview of the dynamic and welcoming learning environments to come.

We’re thrilled to see the Pukui Learning Commons evolve day by day and look forward to sharing more milestones as we move toward completion. Stay tuned for next month’s update!

April 2025

Exciting progress continues at the Mary Kawena Pukui Learning Commons as the project steadily moves closer to completion. The structural steel framing and decking over the exterior student social spaces are now complete, and roofing work is actively underway, further defining the building’s form and function.

Work has also begun on finishing the exterior walls and roof eaves, bringing a refined and polished look to the outer façade. Inside the building, construction is advancing rapidly. In-wall utility work is complete, drywall finishing is ongoing, and windows are being installed along the interior of the first floor, allowing us to better envision the dynamic learning environments that will soon come to life.

Beyond the building itself, site work between Alexander Hall and the Pukui Learning Commons is progressing well. The area’s grading is taking shape, and crews have begun constructing the CRM (coral rock masonry) seat walls – an early step in defining the outdoor gathering spaces and landscaping that will connect the Commons to the heart of campus.

We look forward to sharing more as we bring this transformative project to life. More updates coming soon – stay tuned!

March 2025

Significant progress has been made on the Mary Kawena Pukui Learning Commons in recent months. The building’s structural concrete work is nearing completion, and if you have been on campus recently, you can see that the new entrance facing Middle Field is beginning to take shape, with the grand staircase now visible. The roof has been fully waterproofed, ensuring the building’s longevity and protection from the elements.

Inside the building, the framework for most of the rooms are up, defining what will soon be vibrant, dynamic spaces for learning. The ceiling of the library has been painted, and several ceiling components have been installed, adding a touch of completion to this central hub.

As we look ahead, we anticipate turning on the HVAC and electrical units by the end of summer, in order to begin working on interior elements including IT infrastructure and finishes. Landscaping will begin this fall, focusing on the outdoor gathering spaces surrounding this beautiful new addition to our campus.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to build a future of excellence at Punahou. Mahalo for your continued support!

For information about how to support this project, please contact Punahou’s Senior Director of Development, Wendy Chang, at wmchang@punahou.edu or 808.943.3626.