Welcome to the Alfred Hocking House, also known as Graystones, a grand historic residence located at 1302 Nehoa Street in the Makiki Heights neighborhood of Honolulu. This exquisite Queen Anne-style estate stands as a testament to Hawaii's rich architectural heritage. Currently listed for sale by Locations for $4,950,000, the home has been meticulously restored to preserve its historic charm while offering modern comforts.
Glimpse into Hawaii's Past
Built in 1903, the home is among Hawaii's oldest single-family residences. It was commissioned by Alfred Hocking, founder of Honolulu Brewing and Malting Company, and designed by Edgar Allen Poe Newcomb, a nationally known architect who had just arrived in Hawaii, and local architect C.W. Dickey.
Before coming to Honolulu, Newcomb worked for his father's architecture firm in Boston, designing buildings at Bowdoin College and Tufts University, among other Boston landmarks. In Hawaii, Newcomb, together with partner Dickey, designed Bishop Hall on the Punahou School campus, Sacred Heart Convent School, St. Clement's Chapel and Parsonage, Wailuku School on Maui and several private residences.
Hocking, a British immigrant who worked in the sugar industry on Maui, moved to Honolulu to start a brewing company in 1899. The brewing company launched Primo brand lager in 1901. Hocking also represented Maui in the Senate of the Republic of Hawaii.
Following Hocking's death in 1936, the home was owned by Rose Chang Lee until 1983. Two years later, the home was purchased and extensively renovated by Rick Ralston, founder of the iconic Hawaii brand Crazy Shirts. The home was named among the "9 Greatest Honolulu Homes" in a 2018 Honolulu Magazine article.
Architectural Elegance
Designed in the late Queen Anne Revival-style, a popular Victorian architectural style in the late 1880s to early 1900s, the two-story home features an octagonal turret, gabled two-story bay window and pent-roofed, wrap-around front porch. The home gets its name from its gray-colored bluestone bricks. The bluestone was imported from Britain and hand-cut on the property. At 21-inches thick, the stone helps to keep the home cool.
Inside, the home features leaded glass windows, Gothic-style woodwork, Tudor archways, and open tracery, or ornamental decoration, along the stairway balustrade, or railing. Another unique feature of the home is “rockery,” a small lava-rock-lined garden built into the dining room.
With more than 5,700 square feet of interior space, this grand residence has six bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms. Situated on an expansive 19,428-square-foot up-sloped lot, there is plenty of space for outdoor recreation. An impeccably landscaped yard and sparkling pool make 1302 Nehoa Street ideal for entertaining large groups and intimate gatherings alike—the residence has been the site of many fundraisers, and charitable and community events over the years.
A Storied Restoration
In 1985, new owner Ralston undertook a comprehensive restoration of the property. His renovation honored the home's original design while incorporating contemporary conveniences, ensuring its place as a cherished piece of Hawaii's architectural history.
Today, the property seamlessly blends historic features like hardwood floors and detailed paneling with modern amenities, to ensure a comfortable and authentic home. The home is listed on both the Hawaii Register of Historic Places and the National Register of Historic Places.
Prime Location
Located in Metro Honolulu, 1302 Nehoa Street offers easy access to downtown Honolulu and the city's financial district. Residents can enjoy proximity to a variety of schools, restaurants, shopping centers and recreational facilities, all while residing in a tranquil and historic neighborhood.
An Opportunity to Own a Piece of History
Experience the timeless elegance of this historic estate and help to preserve Hawaii's rich architectural heritage. Contact your Locations Realtor to schedule a viewing.
1302 Nehoa Street is listed by Locations Realtor and Partner Glen Fujihara.
