PACIFIC 19 Kona, a new design-forward boutique hotel, has opened on Hawaii’s Big Island.

Managed by Springboard Hospitality, the 122-room hotel sits on the 19th parallel, which draws a line across the Pacific Ocean connecting east to west.

“The hotel is inspired by the Pacific – a home to many places, cultures, and peoples,” said James Evans, co-founder and managing partner, Nine Brains. “PACIFIC 19 Kona is a fresh concept for Hawaii Island. We want to be our guest’s basecamp, while helping them connect authentically with Hawaii, as if guiding a visiting friend or family member. Not only will that happen through personal connection with the staff at the hotel, but we’re putting a lot of effort into building a curated travel guide and custom itineraries, including being able to book adventures right from the website with hand-picked local outfitters. We’re excited to welcome creators and travelers alike ready to experience something new.”

Honolulu-based design team The Vanguard Theory was tasked with creating the concept for the property. They focused on creating intentional spaces meant to bring the outside in. Design highlights include:

• an open-air lobby entrance anchored by a giant monkeypod tree and flora
• a large reception table made from reclaimed monkeypod by local woodworker Ryan Donnelly
• a lobby “living room” accentuated by planters, teak slat walls, matching wood shelving, and custom wallpaper designed by local artist Lauren Trangmar that features native royal palms, papaya, ohia, and koa trees

Guestrooms feature a palette of sandy taupe, palm green, black lava and whitecap, complemented by natural wood furnishings (credenzas, upholstered headboards, etc.), each of which is custom designed specifically for the hotel. Thoughtful touches include 100 percent cotton linens and towels, high-end bath amenities, and purchasable locally-sourced provisions. Guestrooms also have private lanais and macro bars with snacks and purchasable adventure gear.

The hotel is also home to Café P19, which serves coffee, artisanal and light bites, and a lobby retail shop selling snorkels, fins, adventure beach wear, and more.

Programming at the property is centered around art, music, culture and wellness. It includes daily yoga classes, live music and food trucks on Fridays and Saturdays, rotating lifestyle pop-ups by local designers and artists, and off-property island experiences.