Hawaiian Modern

An illuminating study of the architecture of one of the 20th century’s most important tropical modernists

Vladimir Ossipoff (1907–1998), known as the “master of Hawaiian architecture,” was at the forefront of the postwar phenomenon known as tropical modernism. Although he practiced at a time of rapid growth and social change in Hawai`i, Ossipoff criticized large-scale development and advocated environmentally sensitive designs, developing a distinctive form of architecture appropriate to the lush topography, microclimates, and vernacular traditions of the Hawaiian islands.

This stunning book, now available for the first time in paperback, surveys Ossipoff’s buildings, which demonstrate a striking interplay of indoor and outdoor space, as well as a vibrant and glamorous architectural style that has proven delightfully particular to its place and durable over time.

Published in association with the Honolulu Museum of Art

Exhibition Schedule:

Honolulu Academy of Arts, Hawaii (November 29, 2007 – January 27, 2008)

Yale School of Architecture, New Haven (Fall 2008)

Deutsches Architekturmuseum, Frankfurt (Spring 2009)