Two mosaic murals in the lobby depict Maui snaring the sun and pulling it back down into the sea.

KAANAPALI – The Hyatt Kaanapali Beach, a Hyatt Residence Club Resort, has been named a finalist in the American Resort Development Association’s annual award competition in four resort design categories: best resort architecture, site plan, amenities, and interior design.

Operated by Hyatt Vacation Ownership (HVO), the resort opened for occupancy in December 2014.

A joint venture with Host Hotels & Resorts Inc., the property is the newest of 16 upscale shared-ownership resorts marketed and managed by HVO.

“We’re honored to be named as finalists for these prestigious awards,” said John Burlingame, president of HVO.

“This incredible resort represents a true collaboration among some of the best minds in the industry, and we’re thrilled that our vision has been recognized by the industry.”

Honolulu-based Group 70 International’s design for the resort’s architecture, site plan and amenities celebrates Hawaii’s unique cultural heritage and makes the most of the 4.5-acre oceanfront site.

All but nine of the 131 units have direct ocean views, and all feature spacious lanais that extend the living space into the outdoors.

Onsite amenities include the Lahaina Provision Company, which features locally sourced groceries; a fitness center and Day Lounge; and lagoon and infinity pools surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping. Members and guests also have access to the array of amenities and services at the adjacent Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa.

El Segundo, California-based Design Group Carl Ross followed suit with interior designs that reference Hawaiian legends and traditions, such as two mosaic murals in the 8,000-square-foot, open-air lobby that depict Maui snaring the sun (Kala) and pulling it back down into the sea.

Both firms included sustainability features to meet LEED certification requirements, including a solar thermal-assisted hot water system, high-efficiency air conditioning units with an energy management system, and low-flow kitchen and bath fixtures.

The American Resort Development Association will present its 2015 “ARDY” awards at the ARDA World 2015 Annual Convention & Expo on April 12-16 at the Orlando World Center in Orlando, Florida.