The Ward Entertainment Building: A Cultural and Entertainment Hub in Hawaii

With Birdair's completion in 2001, the Ward Entertainment Center in Honolulu, Hawaii, has become a landmark destination, captivating both locals and tourists with its unique blend of entertainment, culture, and innovative architecture. At the heart of this multi-block complex lies a 16-movie megaplex, offering an unparalleled cinematic experience. What sets this complex apart is its striking design, featuring a Birdair PTFE-coated fiberglass membrane that adds to its inviting atmosphere.

The Ward Entertainment Center stands out for its architectural innovation, particularly with the Birdair PTFE membrane canopy covering approximately 12,400 square feet. This cone-shaped canopy serves as the entrance to the theater complex, allowing abundant natural light to flood the space. The use of PTFE membrane not only creates a welcoming ambiance for patrons but also showcases the beauty of tensile architecture.

Built in 1995, the Ward Entertainment Building seamlessly blends modern architectural design with elements inspired by Hawaiian tradition. Its sleek exterior, adorned with glass panels and steel accents, reflects the contemporary spirit of Honolulu's urban landscape. However, the building also pays homage to its cultural roots with subtle Hawaiian motifs and colors, creating a harmonious environment.

Inside the Ward Entertainment Center, visitors are treated to an array of shops, boutiques, and restaurants, catering to every taste and preference. From high-end fashion outlets to local artisanal crafts, the retail offerings provide a diverse shopping experience. Food enthusiasts can indulge in a culinary adventure, with a wide selection of eateries serving up everything from traditional Hawaiian delicacies to international cuisine. Entertainment is at the heart of the Ward Entertainment Center, with attractions that appeal to all ages. State-of-the-art cinemas offer the latest blockbusters and independent films in comfortable surroundings. For those seeking live performances, the complex features theaters and performance spaces showcasing local talent, musical acts, and theatrical productions.

Beyond its role as a leisure destination, the Ward Entertainment Center is deeply engaged with the local community and committed to sustainability. The building hosts regular events, festivals, and fundraisers that support charitable causes and promote community cohesion. It also incorporates eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient lighting, recycling programs, and initiatives to reduce carbon emissions, contributing to Hawaii's efforts to protect its natural environment.

The Ward Entertainment Center embodies the spirit of aloha, welcoming all who enter with warmth, hospitality, and a sense of belonging. It serves as a gathering place where people come together to shop, dine, be entertained, and connect with each other and the culture of Hawaii. With its diverse offerings and vibrant atmosphere, it continues to be a cherished destination for residents and visitors, perpetuating the legacy of Hawaii's rich heritage while embracing the excitement of modern life. The innovative use of Birdair's PTFE membrane adds to its allure, creating an architectural masterpiece that symbolizes the best of both tradition and innovation in Honolulu.

Photo Credit: G70

About Birdair

Birdair, Inc., is the leading specialty design build contractor of custom tensile structures around the world. In addition to pre-construction services such as design assistance, budgeting, construction methodologies and project scheduling, Birdair provides design-build solutions in all aspects of project design, fabrication, installation and maintenance. The company offers a selection of architectural fabric membranes, including PTFE fiberglass, TensoSky? ETFE film, PVC and Tensotherm?, an insulated tensioned membrane system. Birdair, based in Buffalo, NY, is a member of the Taiyo Kogyo Group, with operations serving North and South America and other international locations. For more information about Birdair, call 1-800-622-2246 or visit Birdair.com.