Steven D. Wong AIA, DBIA, CQM

Executive Vice President, Building Division

Steven has been involved in the architecture profession since 1967, working with many major architectural firms in Hawaii before starting his own practice and joining Mitsunaga & Associates Inc. in 1984. His extensive portfolio spans projects throughout Hawaii, the South Pacific, Guam, and South Korea, encompassing residential, educational, sports and recreational, affordable multi-family housing, and healthcare facilities. His work has been recognized by the American Institute of Architects, NAIOP, American Planning Association, and other national organizations.

Qualifications

1987 – Licensed Architect, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas (A011)
1971 – Licensed Architect, State of Hawaii (AR-4646)
1971 – Bachelor of Architecture, University of Hawaii at Manoa

Certifications:

  • Design Build Institute of America (DBIA) Certified Professional
  • Construction Quality Manager (CQM) Certification

How I Got Into My Career

As a student of Louis Kahn, I developed a strong belief that well-designed buildings improve people’s lives. I view architecture as a service industry, guided by Ayn Rand’s philosophy: “I don’t build in order to have clients, I have clients in order to build.” This perspective has shaped my approach to putting client service at the forefront of my practice.

Affiliations

  • American Institute of Architects (AIA), 5×5 Mentoring
  • Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) – At Large Board Member
  • DBIA Hawaii Board Member
  • Society of Military Engineers (SME)
  • St. Louis School Facilities Committee Advisor
  • Knights of Columbus, Chapter 15124 – 4th Degree
  • Shotokan Karate Federation International – Godan
  • Hawaii Karate Kodansha Kai, Vice President – Rokudan with Kiyoshi Title
  • Chief Instructor, Salt Lake SKIF Karate

Featured Projects

2022 – Solomon Elementary School (Kukulu Hale Award for Best Government Project)
2015 – American Brewery (AIA Design Award, Honorable Mention)
2014 – Hale Mohalu II Senior Affordable Housing (Kukulu Hale Award)
2010 – Maryknoll Community Center (Kukulu Hale Award)
2001 – Kapolei Middle School (AIA Award of Merit)
2001 – Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School (Impact in Learning Award)
1997 – Developed the State of Hawaii Educational Specifications

Outside the Office

Dedicated to the principle of “Noblesse Oblige,” I actively participate in various public and non-profit organizations. I serve as a guest lecturer at Chaminade University’s Interior Design Department, mentor AIA interns, and maintain active involvement with the Knights of Columbus, Shotokan Karate International Federation, Hawaii Kodansha Kai, and St. Pius X Church.

Our Expertise

At MAI, we offer comprehensive architecture and engineering solutions through our four core divisions:

Architecture

Civil Engineering

Structural Engineering

Construction Management

Our integrated approach allows us to tackle complex projects with efficiency and innovation, always with an eye towards sustainability and cultural sensitivity.