RDG in the Media: Renewing a Historic Honolulu Landmark
The Hawaii Catholic Herald highlights the ongoing restoration of the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, one of the nation’s oldest Catholic cathedrals.
As the restoration of the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace enters its final phase, the Hawaii Catholic Herald is spotlighting the scale and significance of efforts to renew one of Honolulu’s most historic landmarks. The publication spoke with members of the renovation team and quoted RDG Architect and Senior Partner Bob Krupa, AIA, CSI, CDT, from prior remarks, who explained how the design carefully balances preservation with modernization to ensure the cathedral continues to serve its community for generations to come.
As the Mother Church of the Diocese of Honolulu and the oldest Catholic cathedral in continuous use in the United States, the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace carries deep historical and cultural significance. Originally dedicated in 1843 and constructed of coral blocks quarried from nearby reefs on land gifted by King Kamehameha III, the cathedral remains a defining landmark in Honolulu. RDG has partnered with the Diocese on its renewal since 2010, guiding a long-term effort to restore and unify the cathedral around its 19th-century character, particularly the period associated with St. Damien.
Krupa mentioned that RDG’s approach focuses on addressing longstanding performance challenges — particularly moisture infiltration — while preserving the integrity of the cathedral’s original structure and historic detailing. The work includes restoring deteriorated conditions, integrating structural retrofits and introducing new architectural elements such as a reliquary chapel to house relics of local saints. Updated liturgical furnishings, including a new altar, ambo and baptismal font, along with restored stained glass and upgraded building systems, support both function and longevity while maintaining the building’s character.
He referenced how RDG’s long-standing relationship with the Diocese of Honolulu, together with a collaborative, phased process, has guided the project for more than a decade. Key milestones include the rededication of the sanctuary in 2017 and the completion of renovations for the cathedral’s 175th anniversary in 2018. RDG is working alongside Mason Architects of Honolulu and a team of specialized consultants to bring the project to completion.
Through this effort, the cathedral is being thoughtfully renewed as both a place of worship and a resilient civic landmark. The final rededication of the fully renewed cathedral is anticipated on Aug. 16, 2027, the 184th anniversary of the original dedication.