First impressions, they say, last the longest. The founders of Akua Awa LLC take this statement to heart, working diligently and creatively to create an appealing first impression for every home with their one-of-a-kind hand carved tropical motif doors and entry systems. Drawing from entryway design traditions of several cultures, Akua Awa (which means "doors to God") knows that every great or humble room is heralded by a door.

Each solid African hardwood door is specially crafted by skilled traditional carvers in Ghana, West Africa and is individually hand polished and stained in Hawai'i by Bharat Das, known in the Islands for his exquisite attention to fine detail and craftsmanship.

The company was founded in 2006 when co-owner Amy Kogut was inspired by the fantastic carved creations of the artisans in Ghana. Kogut’s son-in-law, Mallor Mends, crafts each of the doors based on images of tropical plants and scenes, sent to him in Ghana from Hawai'i. Each custom design is created to convey a seamless flow between exterior and interior while maintaining a reverence for the natural elements that have inspired the original design.

"We believe that physical doors can impact the perception and personality conveyed within a space,’ says Kogut.

Once the doors arrive in Hawai'i, Das — who has over 40 years of woodworking experience in cabinetry, furniture, boxes, and wood sculpture --completes the finish of each door, giving personalized attention to every one, just as he would one of his own oil paintings.
   
The doors come in standard measurements of 80 inches by 36 inches with double door options available, and the homeowner enjoys may employ these versatile doors for interiors or exteriors.
   
"Doors are the cardinal feature and force of your home design," notes Kogut. "We deliver the most refined and customized carved doors, available in extraordinarily fine imported and local woods."

Akua Awa
(808) 256-7745
www.akuaawa.com