Muse Honolulu introduces a distinct architectural presence to Midtown Ala Moana with 315 residences ranging from studios to 3-bedroom penthouses, priced from $700,000 to over $2.4 million. Developed by JL Capital and designed by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson, this 400-foot tower offers a unique “Urban Loft” concept. JL Capital selected Layton Construction as general contractor in October 2025, with construction slated to begin in 2026 and completion targeted for late 2028.
Quick Facts
- Developer: JL Capital
- Architect: Bohlin Cywinski Jackson
- Location: 1538 Kapiolani Blvd, Honolulu (Midtown Ala Moana)
- Total Homes: 315 Residences
- Building Height: 400 feet (39 stories)
- Price Range: $700,000 – $2.4M+
- Home Types: Studios, 1-3 Bedrooms (Lofts, Tower, Penthouses)
- Status: Active sales (owner-occupant sales opened 2025)
- General Contractor: Layton Construction (selected October 2025)
- Completion: Estimated late 2028
- Commercial: Ground-floor retail & restaurants
What is Muse Honolulu?
Muse Honolulu represents a significant shift in the architectural landscape of Ala Moana. While the nearby Ward Village master plan focuses on integrated community living, Muse stands as a singular, design-forward statement in the heart of “Midtown Ala Moana.” Located at the intersection of Kapiolani Boulevard and Kaheka Street, the project is developed by JL Capital, the team behind the successful Sky Ala Moana project.
The tower is designed by the renowned firm Bohlin Cywinski Jackson, famous for their work on Apple stores worldwide and the Grand Teton Discovery Center. Their influence is visible in the building’s striking glass façade and the emphasis on natural light and materials. Unlike typical residential towers in Honolulu that stack identical floor plates, Muse incorporates distinct “Urban Lofts” on its podium levels, offering soaring ceilings and a lifestyle product rarely seen in the Hawaii market.
This development caters to buyers looking for something different—an alternative to the mega-master-planned communities, offering bespoke design, a central location, and a slightly more boutique feel despite its tower stature. With 315 units, it balances exclusivity with the amenities of a larger resort-style project.
Muse Honolulu Prices & Residence Types
Pricing at Muse Honolulu reflects its luxury positioning but offers a competitive entry point compared to front-row Kakaʻako developments. The project is divided into four distinct residence collections, each catering to a different lifestyle need.
1. The Urban Lofts
Perhaps the most defining feature of Muse Honolulu is its collection of Urban Lofts. Located on the podium levels (floors 2-7), these units feature higher ceilings and industrial-inspired design elements. They are designed for the creative professional or the urban dweller who values volume and space over high-floor views.
- Layouts: Spacious studios and 1-bedrooms.
- Key Feature: 10-foot+ ceilings and floor-to-ceiling glass.
- Vibe: Metropolitan, artistic, and modern.
2. The Tower Residences
Rising from the podium, the main Tower Residences (floors 8-34) offer classic luxury condo living with expansive views of the city, mountains, and ocean. These units prioritize efficient layouts and maximizing the vistas of the Honolulu skyline.
- Layouts: 1, 2, and 3-bedroom configurations.
- Muse Honolulu Prices: Starting around $900,000 for 1-bedrooms up to $1.8M for high-floor 2-bedrooms.
- Views: Makai (ocean) views towards Ala Moana Beach Park and Mauka (mountain) views towards Manoa Valley.
3. The Penthouses
The crown jewels of the building, the Penthouses occupy the top floors (35-39). These limited-edition residences feature upgraded finishes, larger lanais, and the most commanding views in the building.
4. The Townhomes
A limited collection of townhome-style residences offer a single-family feel within the vertical community. These are located at the amenity deck level, providing direct access to the outdoor spaces.
Estimated Pricing Structure
| Unit Type | Size Range (sq ft) | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Studios | 450 – 550 | $700,000 – $850,000 |
| 1-Bedroom | 650 – 800 | $900,000 – $1.2M |
| 2-Bedroom | 950 – 1,200 | $1.3M – $1.9M |
| 3-Bedroom | 1,400 – 1,800 | $2.1M – $2.4M+ |
Muse Honolulu Floor Plans & Design
The Muse Honolulu floor plans are designed with modern living in mind. JL Capital and the design team have prioritized open-concept living areas where the kitchen flows seamlessly into the dining and living spaces, extending out to the lanai.
Key Interior Features:
- Kitchens: European cabinetry, quartz countertops, and premium appliance packages (Bosch or Gaggenau depending on unit tier).
- Bathrooms: Spa-inspired with soaking tubs in master suites and rain showers.
- Tech: Smart home integration for climate control and lighting.
- Lanais: usable outdoor spaces protected from the wind, designed as an extension of the living room.
Detailed floor plan PDFs are available upon request. Contact us to view specific layouts for the Urban Lofts or Tower Residences.
Amenities & Lifestyle
Muse Honolulu dedicates an entire level to amenities, creating a private resort for residents. The amenity deck is positioned to maximize sun exposure while providing shelter from the trade winds.
Outdoor Amenities
- Resort Pool: A large lap pool tailored for both exercise and leisure.
- Spa & Cold Plunge: A wellness circuit featuring hot tubs and a reinvigorating cold plunge pool.
- Putting Green: A beautifully landscaped area for practicing your short game.
- BBQ Cabanas: Private dining areas for hosting friends and family.
- Dog Park: A dedicated space for pets, acknowledging the pet-friendly nature of the building.
Indoor Amenities
- Fitness Center: State-of-the-art gym with cardio and strength training equipment.
- Yoga Studio: A tranquil space for yoga and pilates.
- Massage Rooms: Private treatment rooms available for resident booking.
- Club Lounge: A social hub with a catering kitchen for larger gatherings.
- Coworking Space: Essential for the modern hybrid worker, offering private booths and meeting tables.
Location: Midtown Ala Moana
Muse is situated in what is increasingly being called “Midtown Ala Moana.” This area along Kapiolani Boulevard is rapidly transforming into a pedestrian-friendly urban corridor.
Proximity to Key Destinations:
- Ala Moana Center: Just a 5-minute walk to the world’s largest open-air shopping mall.
- Ala Moana Beach Park: A 10-minute walk to the sand and surf.
- Grocery: Walking distance to Don Quijote, Palama Supermarket, and Target.
- Dining: Immediate access to the vibrant dining scene on Keeaumoku Street and Kapiolani Blvd.
The location offers excellent transit connectivity, with major bus lines on Kapiolani and easy access to the H-1 freeway. Muse is not on the Skyline rail line: the system currently ends at Middle Street, the Kakaʻako stations are targeted for roughly 2031, and the planned Ala Moana terminus — the one nearest Muse — has been deferred. Plan around TheBus and driving, not rail.
The Developer: JL Capital
JL Capital has established itself as a major player in the Honolulu luxury market. Their recent success with Sky Ala Moana—a dual-tower project featuring hotel and residential condos—proved their ability to deliver high-quality, amenity-rich buildings that resonate with local and international buyers.
With Muse, JL Capital is partnering with Bohlin Cywinski Jackson to elevate the design conversation. This partnership signals a commitment to architectural excellence, moving beyond standard high-rise templates to create a building with genuine character and artistic merit.
Buying at Muse Honolulu
As an active development, buying a unit at Muse involves a specific process. Sales are currently underway, and inventory changes weekly.
- Registration: Interested buyers must register to receive the latest price lists and availability.
- Contract: A deposit is required upon signing the sales contract (typically 5% to 10%).
- Construction Benchmarks: Additional deposits may be due at groundbreaking or topping off.
- Closing: The final balance is due upon completion, targeted for late 2028.
For a detailed guide on navigating this process, read our article on How to Buy New Construction in Hawaii. It covers everything from contract review to the final walkthrough.
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Our team specializes in Oʻahu new construction and can help you navigate lotteries, financing, and the buying process. Compensation is negotiable and set out in your written buyer agreement. Confirm any builder contribution before committing.
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