Celebrating Our 2025 Hoʻohuli Special Awards Winners!

The Legacy Award honors a person, company, or organization whose contributions have advanced the interior design profession in Hawaii, exemplifying advocacy, mentorship, design innovation, and sustainable leadership.

Mary Philpotts McGrath built a legacy that forever shaped design in Hawaiʻi. As founder of Philpotts Interiors in the 1960s, she championed a design approach rooted in culture, craftsmanship, and a deep sense of place—drawing upon the island’s rich heritage, landscape, and spirit to create timeless, island-authentic spaces. Her iconic projects, including Kona Village Resort, Aulani, Washington Place, and countless homes, set the standard for multifunctional designs that blend indoor-outdoor living with Hawaiʻi’s natural beauty.

Mary’s greatest impact endures through the generations she mentored with generosity, curiosity, and heart. Her leadership, community service, and ability to inspire others continue to influence Hawaiʻi’s creative landscape, as noted by colleagues who praised her wisdom, aloha spirit, and collaborative genius.

The Industry Impact Award recognizes an active IIDA Professional, Associate, or industry member within the IIDA Hawaii Pacific Chapter who exemplifies outstanding volunteer service through commitment, passion, professionalism, advocacy, mentorship, and leadership.

Holly Boling Ruiz brings energy, authenticity, and heart to every space and initiative. As a partner at Philpotts Interiors—now co-led with Marion Philpotts-Miller and Lowell Tom—she has dedicated over 20 years to mentoring young designers, supporting students, and fostering community ties within IIDA Hawaiʻi Pacific. Her consistent leadership, compassion, and encouragement empower emerging professionals, clients, and creatives alike, making the industry stronger, more connected, and infused with joy.

The Emerging Professional Award honors a junior design leader who has advanced the interior design profession through hard work and a passion for design.

In just a few years, Allyson Gonzaga has emerged as a standout at The Vanguard Theory. Her technical skill and creative thinking have driven major hospitality projects, such as the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani renovation and its upcoming lobby redesign. Allyson’s fresh curiosity shines in custom millwork, client presentations, and collaborations with local artists—like the Royal Lahaina Resort mural—pushing her team toward innovative solutions. Her humility and leadership embody the future of Hawaiʻi design: thoughtful, bold, and brimming with potential.

The Member of the Year Award recognizes an active IIDA Professional, Associate, or industry member within the IIDA Hawaii Pacific Chapter who exemplifies outstanding volunteer service through commitment, passion, professionalism, advocacy, mentorship, and leadership.

For the second consecutive year, Monique Palisbo earns Member of the Year—a true reflection of her heart, consistency, and aloha-driven leadership. As former Chapter President and tireless volunteer, she connects people, champions others, and builds lasting momentum for IIDA Hawaiʻi Pacific. Monique’s purpose, humility, and positivity create welcoming spaces for members at every career stage, elevating our chapter in profound ways.