The Heartbeat of Hilweh Builders: An Interview with Chad and Liana Hilweh

Hilweh Builders - remodeling company in Honolulu Hawaii

Hilweh Builders, a cornerstone of the Oahu construction scene, is driven by the passion and dedication of Chad and Liana. With their deep-rooted connections to Hawaii and a shared vision for sustainable, high-quality building practices, Chad and Liana have cultivated a company that stands out for its commitment to excellence and community.

“Growing up here, I’ve learned that Hawaii’s older homes have their quirks—like canec ceilings and jalousie windows. Understanding these nuances is crucial.” -Chad Hilweh

Chad’s Journey: Building with Aloha

Chad, a local of Oahu with over 15 years of experience in the construction industry, brings unique insights to every project he undertakes. His profound understanding of Hawaii’s historical and trending building materials, local weather patterns, and the intricacies of the island’s community network sets him apart.

“Growing up here, I’ve learned that Hawaii’s older homes have their quirks—like canec ceilings and jalousie windows,” Chad explains. “Understanding these nuances is crucial. For instance, the weather can change rapidly; it can be sunny, then raining, then sunny again. This knowledge helps us adapt our projects and avoid delays.”

One memorable challenge Chad faced was during a high-rise Waikiki bathroom renovation. Uncovering significant electrical and plumbing issues left by a previous contractor, Chad had to navigate through a live electrical box under the shower and incorrect plumbing materials. “It was a high-risk situation,” Chad recalls. “But with clear communication and swift decision-making, we resolved the issues and delivered a successful renovation.”

Sustainability is a core principle at Hilweh Builders. Chad shares, “We use green building practices and focus on reducing waste. Reusing materials not only saves money but also protects Hawaii’s natural resources. We love partnering with organizations like Reuse Hawaii in Kakaako.”

Liana’s Expertise: Financial Precision and Client Care

Liana, a CPA and experienced controller, ensures that every project at Hilweh Builders remains on budget without compromising quality. “Financial planning and monitoring are key,” she says. “We provide detailed estimates and communicate transparently with our clients about any unforeseen issues.”

Effective communication is a hallmark of Hilweh Builders. “We prioritize openness and regular updates,” Liana notes. “Chad and I frequently discuss project updates to ensure our clients are always informed. This builds trust and keeps everyone on the same page.”

Liana also spearheads the company’s online presence, creating engaging content that showcases their expertise and project successes. “We use real-life examples to make our content helpful,” she explains. “Our upcoming website updates will focus on pricing transparency, which will be valuable for anyone considering a remodel in Oahu.”

Family and Future: Balancing and Growing Together

Balancing the demands of running a successful family business with quality family time is something Chad and Liana prioritize. “We focus on being present with our family,” Chad says. “Whether it’s hiking, spending time at the beach, or just enjoying the outdoors, these activities strengthen our family bonds and keep us mentally clear and energized for our work.”

Staying ahead of industry trends is another priority. “We continuously educate ourselves on the latest technologies and design innovations,” Liana adds. “Our involvement with the Building Industry Association of Hawaii helps us stay informed and integrate cutting-edge practices into our projects.”

Looking ahead, Chad and Liana are excited about several upcoming projects, especially in creating outdoor spaces. “Post-pandemic, there’s been a surge in interest in outdoor areas,” Chad observes. “We’re focusing on building decks, pergolas, and gazebos with sustainable practices. Partnering with Trex, we’re becoming one of their ‘Pros,’ which will add value for our customers.”

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Vision for the Future of Hilweh Builders

In the next five to ten years, Chad and Liana envision Hilweh Builders as a leading design-build contractor in Hawaii, renowned for their industry leadership, sustainability efforts, and community contributions. “We aim to expand our team, enhance our sustainable building practices, and continue positively impacting the Oahu community,” Liana concludes.

With their deep love for Hawaii and unwavering commitment to their craft, Chad and Liana of Hilweh Builders are not just building homes—they’re building a legacy rooted in quality, sustainability, and aloha.