The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Hilo regional office boasts a “butterfly-style” standing seam metal roof.

The 9,000 sq. ft. masonry and steel framed building includes a large meeting hall and an open courtyard. It was designed in 1961-62 by architect Alfred Preis, who was also responsible for the ILWU Headquarters in Honolulu. This “butterfly-style” roof is a feature found on several other Preis works including the Arizona Memorial and the Honolulu Zoo entrance building. The Hall features a dramatic plaster folded-plate ceiling and wood louver spandrel details above the courtyard doors. 

The renovation included reroofing; added air conditioning to the Hall; masonry repairs; new flooring and furnishings; and upgrading paving; lighting and electrical systems; plumbing; and security. 

The building was named for Harry Kamoku who, in 1935, served as the Hilo Longshoremen's Association’s first president and business agent.

Photo Credit: Adam Taylor