About Us

Aloha — we’re Kala’i General Contracting, a construction company rooted in the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. Born from Hawaiian and Polynesian heritage, our work is guided by the values we were raised with: aloha (compassion and respect), kuleana (responsibility), and mālama ʻāina (care for the land). Those principles shape how we plan, build, and care for every project.
 

Our Approach

  • Respect for place: We listen to the land and the people who live here. Site conditions, climate, and local culture inform our designs and construction methods.
  • Quality & durability: Like the generations before us, we build for the long term. We use proven techniques and modern standards to deliver safe, resilient, and well-crafted structures.
  • Stewardship & sustainability: We prioritize materials and practices that reduce waste, protect natural drainage and native landscapes, and honor the ʻāina.
  • Community & ʻohana: Building is a communal act. We treat clients, trade partners, and crew as ʻohana — with honesty, clear communication, and mutual respect.

What we Do

  • Residential construction and remodeling
  • Custom homes that respond to site and climate.
  • Structural repairs, additions, and upgrades
  • Site-sensitive planning and consultation
 

Why Choose Us

We combine island knowledge and cultural values with technical skill and professional standards. Whether you’re building a family home, renovating a generational property, or doing site work that touches culturally significant areas, we approach every project with care and accountability. When a project involves wahi pana or cultural practices, we welcome guidance from kūpuna and cultural practitioners to ensure respectful, informed decisions.

Meet The Team

Founded by Dayton Kalai — born and raised in Waimanalo and now based on the Big Island — Dayton brings 28 years of construction experience. Inspired by his father, a carpenter, Dayton began his career after high school working as a plumber with his Uncle Sammy at Alameda Plumbing, where he built his foundation in trades and work ethic. He later joined the Carpenters Union as an apprentice with Fletcher Pacific and went on to work with Hawaiian Dredging Construction Company, spending over 15 years in their heavy division. Today Dayton leads a proud family‑owned and -operated business, committed to quality workmanship, respect for the ʻāina, and serving families and local businesses.

Let's Build Together

We’d be honored to bring aloha, kuleana, and mālama ʻāina to your next project.
Mahalo nui loa.