In homelessness crisis, Hawaii eyes thatched ‘hale’ homes

Posted on Apr 14 2016

HONOLULU (AP)—As Hawaii deals with its ongoing homelessness crisis, lawmakers and residents want to revive the Hawaiian tradition of living in hale (HAH-lay). Those are the thatched homes made from local trees and plants.

They say hale can provide more affordable housing, which is scarce on the islands.

A bill to ease restrictions on building hale died after critics brought up safety concerns. Now advocates are trying to bring attention to a type of housing that celebrates culture and uses environmentally sustainable techniques to house the homeless.

Homes based on indigenous architecture are found from tipi-style homes in Austin, Texas, to Tahiti, where thatched homes lure honeymooners.

Some Oahu residents want to convert a homeless encampment into a village of traditional hale with modern technology like solar panels.

Press Release

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