Ep 9. Hawaiian Hideaway

In season 5 episode 9 of Building Off the Grid, titled Hawaiian Hideaway, viewers are taken on a breathtaking journey to the rocky cliffs of Hawaii's Kauai Island. Here, they meet David and Ohana, a couple who have decided to build their dream home on a 20-acre plot of land with stunning ocean views.

The couple has made the decision to build their home using only natural materials found on the island, a challenging feat considering Kauai's rugged terrain and remote location. The couple seeks to build a home that is completely off the grid, self-sufficient, and in harmony with the stunning natural landscape around them.

Construction of the home begins with an ambitious plan to create a solid foundation strong enough to withstand the strong winds and occasional storms that come with living on a cliff. The team must also think about how to use the sloping terrain to their advantage, ensuring that the home is both stable and architecturally fascinating.

The Hawaiian Hideaway episode follows the construction process, starting with the excavation of the land to make way for the foundation. The sheer size and scope of the job is impressive, with heavy machinery required to carve out the land in preparation for the home to be built. The team works efficiently, but carefully, ensuring that they are not only creating a stable foundation but also preserving the natural landscape as much as possible.

Once the foundation is complete, the team begins to gather materials for the rest of the home. This involves sourcing timber from local forests and working with the unique materials that the island has to offer, such as lava rocks and coconut husks. The builders work in harmony with nature, gathering resources in a responsible and sustainable way.

One of the most fascinating parts of the Hawaiian Hideaway episode is the process of creating the roof of the home. The builders use lava rock to create a unique, undulating roof that mimics the natural shapes and contours of the rocky cliff face. Not only is the roof structurally sound, but it also adds to the architectural beauty of the home.

As the build progresses, the team is faced with unexpected challenges, including a landslide that threatens to damage the home's foundation. However, the builders remain resilient and resourceful, finding a way to stabilize the land and prevent any further damage.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning shots of the natural beauty of Kauai island. The team is conscious of the impact that their build will have on the environment, and they take steps to preserve the natural landscape as much as possible.

In the end, David and Ohana's dream home is a stunning example of building off the grid in a way that is both respectful of the natural environment and aesthetically stunning. The home is entirely self-sufficient, relying on solar panels for power and a rainwater catchment system for water. The couple is thrilled with their new home, which is not only a sanctuary for them but a beautiful example of sustainability and responsible building.

Overall, the Hawaiian Hideaway episode of Building Off the Grid is a fascinating look into the world of off-grid building. The stunning location, unique materials, and innovative building techniques make for a captivating watch. Viewers will be left inspired and in awe of the beautiful home that David and Ohana have built.