Welcome to HOUSE OF TROPICS,
Based on the North Shore of Oahu, our work spans across the Pacific, with a current focus on the Hawaiian Islands. Our studio merges the world of architecture and interior design to create one holistic, distinct vision. Each project is an honest expression of who our clients are and how they want to live, with an emphasis on honoring the past, embracing the future, and collaborating with our community. We place value on the use of materials that are natural, sustainable, and sensible - with the intent to blend these concepts into a final design that is thoughtful, artful and rooted in nature.
We build close, supportive relationships with our clients, investing time to understand their life vision, what inspires them, and what brings them happiness. Our goal is to reflect these elements in the home’s design, thoughtfully balanced with the context of place and connection to the surrounding nature. We use materials well-suited to the project's specific climate and the unique requirements of each home.
We intentionally select furnishings, art, and objects that are both practical and meaningful to the client, reflecting the distinctiveness of the space, collaborating with local designers, crafts(w0)men, and artists whenever possible.
House of Tropics is mindful in our impact, embracing our kuleana to protect and uplift the land and communities for future generations. Balancing progress with sustainability, and respect for natural and cultural resources. Continually striving to do better.
OUR PROCESS
Above image description and source listed below in chronological order.
1. Architectural built-in shelving design and detail for Portlock Residence - Portlock, Oahu, HI
2. Studio mood board at House of Tropics - North Shore, Oahu, HI
3. Rendering of Pōhaku Place - Moku o Keawe [Big Island], HI
"I love crafting thoughtful homes that tell a story, homes with soul - designing a place where you feel inspired, surrounded by things that bring you joy and support your vision for life."
Amy gained her degree in Architecture from the University of Texas, at Arlington and has over 15 years of international experience in architecture and interior design working in Dallas, New York, Sydney - Australia, Bali - Indonesia, and the Hawaiian Islands. With experience in luxury hospitality at the forefront of her career, the evolution to working in residential design is a perfect fit for Amy. Blending architecture, art, interior design and lifestyle.
about the designer
AMY GRACE VICENTE
PRINCIPAL DESIGNER & FOUNDER OF HOUSE OF TROPICS
LEED BD+C, AIA HONOLULU ALLIED MEMBER,IIDA ASSOCIATE
I had the pleasure of working with Amy Vicente as lead designer of a breathtaking beach home in Hanalei, Kauai.
Amy’s talent and attention to detail surpasses anyone I’ve ever worked with in this industry. She’s conscientiousness of project budget, although the quality of her finishes would never say so. Her work ethic is light years beyond her local competition.
Amy is the definition of the “full package” covering all items that many designers skip or leave incomplete for the architect or builder to try and figure out in the field.
- Architect, Hanalei Bay, Kauai HI
testimonials
Working with Amy was a delight. She consistently brought an energy as refreshing as a clear sky, even during the most challenging phases of the renovation. Her creativity and problem-solving skills shone through, always maintaining hope and intuitively knowing when to suggest a pivot. Amy’s global design aesthetic was exactly what we needed, as we ourselves are world travelers and wanted our home to reflect that. I believe this quality stems from her multicultural background and zest for life. Her background in architecture provided depth and expertise throughout the renovation process, while her impeccable eye for design brought our home together in ways we could only have dreamed of. I would highly recommend working with Amy; she is an absolute gem!
- Private Client, Residential Remodel, Hawaii Kai, Oahu HI
testimonials
Working with Amy was a fantastic experience. During the design/build process she was responsive, attentive, and very creative in helping us solve issues to make our place perfect for our ohana. Her knowledge and ability really helped us create a beautiful and functional home.
- Private Client, Residential New Build, Kailua Kona, Big Island HI
testimonials
reach out
Ready to design your dream home? Not sure where to start?
Feel free to reach out and get a feel for the process, chat about what inspires you, or just pick our brain. We look forward to hearing from you.
Are you a Hawaii based woodworker, maker, artist, creative?
Want to collaborate? Send us a message below.
submit
Thank you for reaching out, we'll get back to you shortly.
