CASE STUDY
KAPEPA BUSINESS CENTER
A sucessful purchase for a local business owner.
OVERVIEW
Kā'eo Hawai'i Tattoo & Creative Studio is a one-of-a-kind space where artistry, culture, and community come together—rooted in generations of Hawaiian tradition while embracing modern creativity. Kā'eo Hawai'i is a thriving collective of creatives, entrepreneurs, and artists. Specializing in permanent skin art influenced by Hawaiian heritage and global creativity, the studio also supports local businesses with pop-up vendor spaces and runs community-driven events like Art After Dark Kona.
The journey to securing a permanent home for Kā'eo Hawai'i happened unexpectedly. Says owner Mehana Pilago, "I wasn't even looking for a space. I came with my family to see another property, and when I saw this one, I fell in love with the windows.
I didn't know how to make it happen, but I knew I had to try." That's when she reached out to Big Island Commercial Properties.
THE CHALLENGE
Mehana had a clear vision and a growing business, but securing the space came with obstacles. She was still committed to a lease at her previous location and needed to find a replacement tenant before moving forward. The transaction also required expert guidance in commercial negotiations, structuring terms, and problem-solving when challenges arose. "At every step, we hit roadblocks, but we always had a backup plan. I was still stuck in another lease, and we had other challenges..." said Mehana. But the team at BICP found ways to keep things moving forward.
"We started with four artists in our last space. We have over 20 professionals in here, and it's become a true creative hub. This space has allowed us to grow into something bigger than I imagined."
— Mehana Pilago, Kā'eo Hawai'i Tattoo & Creative Studio Owner
THE SOLUTION
The BICP team provided the expertise and connections needed to seamlessly transition Kā'eo Hawai'i into its new home:
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Strategic Real Estate Guidance – Helped refine Mehana's business plan and ensured she had a strong case for securing the space.
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Expert Negotiations – Worked closely with the seller's agent to structure terms that matched with Mehana's business goals.
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Key Business Connections – Introduced Mehana to key industry connections that provided the guidance and support needed to successfully navigate the transition into her new space.
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Problem-Solving & Backup Plans – At every hurdle, the BICP team had an alternative plan ready, ensuring a smooth process from start to finish.
OUR RESULTS
With BICP's support, Kā'eo Hawai'i successfully moved into its new location, where it has grown into a dynamic space for tattoo artistry and community collaboration. The studio now serves as a platform for artists, vendors, and creatives to showcase their work and connect with the local community through Kā'eo Collective Market and Art After Dark Kona.
Kā'eo Has:
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Expanded from 4 tattoo artists to over 20 creatives.
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Created an artist-driven space supporting multiple disciplines.
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Established ongoing partnerships with local businesses.
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Successfully navigated a complex real estate transaction and lease transition.
A LASTING IMPACT
The successful purchase of the property at 73-5574 Maiau St Unit 1A by Mehana Pilago, owners of Kā'eo Hawai'i Studio, will have a profound and lasting impact on both the business and the Kailua-Kona community. By securing a permanent location, Kā'eo Hawai'i Studio is now positioned for sustained growth, allowing them to expand their creative services and contribute to the local economy. The property itself has been transformed into a vibrant hub for artistic expression, attracting clients and visitors alike. This transaction aligns with our commitment to fostering local business development and enriching the community through strategic real estate solutions. The establishment of Kā'eo Hawai'i Studio in this prime location solidifies its role as a key contributor to the cultural landscape of Kailua-Kona, ensuring a positive and enduring legacy for years to come.
PARTNER WITH BICP
At Big Island Commercial Properties we specialize in helping local entrepreneurs secure spaces that support their growth and long-term success. If you're seeking expert guidance in navigating commercial real estate, BICP is here to help!