What is an Ohana Dwelling?

byHawaii House/last updatedOctober 9, 2023/inHawaii Real estate glossary & terms

Have you ever come across the term “Ohana Dwelling” and wondered what it is? Today, we will unravel the mystery behind this unique housing concept, which has its roots in the Hawaiian culture. The term “Ohana” in Hawaiian translates to “family,” which is a critical element in understanding the essence of Ohana Dwellings.

An Ohana Dwelling, also referred to as an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) or a granny flat, is a small, independent living space built on the same property as the primary residence. These dwellings can be attached to the main house or detached, and they are designed to accommodate extended family members or guests. The key concept behind Ohana Dwellings is the belief in supporting strong family ties and nurturing a sense of community. In Hawaii, where the term originated, the Ohana Dwelling concept has become increasingly popular as a solution to address the high cost of living and housing shortages. By providing additional living spaces, families can share resources, reduce financial burdens, and promote a more sustainable lifestyle. Furthermore, the concept supports multigenerational living, which fosters stronger family bonds, emotional support, and caregiving.

There are specific regulations and guidelines that govern the construction of Ohana Dwellings.

They vary depending on the location and local zoning laws, but some general requirements typically include: Ownership: The property owner must occupy either the primary residence or the Ohana Dwelling. Lot size: The property must meet minimum size requirements, which differ depending on the zoning regulations in the area. Utilities: Ohana Dwellings must be connected to the primary residence’s water, sewer, and electrical systems. Parking: Additional off-street parking spaces must be provided for occupants of the Ohana Dwelling. Size: There are restrictions on the size of the Ohana Dwelling based on the size of the primary residence and the property’s zoning. Design: The Ohana Dwelling’s design should be in harmony with the main house’s style and should not negatively impact the surrounding neighborhood.

Ohana Dwellings benefits

Ohana Dwellings provide numerous benefits for homeowners, family members, and the community at large. Some of these advantages include:

Financial: Homeowners can receive rental income or reduce living expenses by sharing resources with family members.
Emotional support: Multigenerational living provides emotional support for both younger and older generations, fostering deeper family connections.
Caregiving: Ohana Dwellings make it convenient for family members to care for elderly relatives or children, easing the burden on caregivers.
Sustainability: By sharing resources, families can reduce their carbon footprint and promote a more environmentally conscious lifestyle.
Affordable housing: Ohana Dwellings offer an affordable housing option for family members and alleviate housing shortages in densely populated areas. In conclusion, the Ohana Dwelling concept not only offers a practical solution to housing and financial challenges, but it also promotes strong family bonds, multigenerational living, and a sense of community. By understanding the importance of Ohana in Hawaiian culture, we can appreciate the value of these unique dwellings in nurturing harmonious relationships within families and their surroundings.