One of the things Disney does best is the details. I make it a point to try and notice the small things when I’m at Walt Disney World and several years ago I stumbled upon this thread by “DISer” Lady Lallie about light fixtures at Disney. I got way more enjoyment than I probably should have from scrolling through picture after picture of uniquely themed light features on Disney property, and ever since then I make it a point to notice them when I’m there in person. Over the years, I have developed quite the collection of pictures from all over Walt Disney World property.
On a recent trip to Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawaii, I decided I would extend this scavenger hunt for Disney light fixtures across the Pacific Ocean!
Here are some of my finds:
This is one of the first ones you’ll see when you enter the lobby. There are a couple of them and they add a nice layer of drama to the large room and make for a really great first impression.
This longer and sleeker light hangs over the check-in desk and frames it nicely.
This one hangs over the lobby. The theming matches the first one and pulls in that organic feel by using natural looking materials.
You’ll find this one in the gift shop. Up there among birds, it’s meant to be a cloud and is symbolic of the symbiotic relationship the ancient Hawaiians had with their surroundings.
The next three are found dotting the hallway ceilings in the guest room wings. They use a nice mix of textures with patterns and materials pulling from the earth and sea.
These sconces that decorate the stonework columns along the guest room hallways play up the geometric pattern that dominates tribal prints and designs.
These similar fixtures are found on top of each the guest room doors and play off of the rattan background well.
Does this one make you think of a sea creature? Or a tribal necklace? I could go either way. This lovely one is found near the spa.
The outside walkways are all lined with lights like this one, which serve an ambient purpose without drawing unnecessary attention.
Perhaps the most Disney of them all? This “aloha” take on the classic Disney version is found inside the guest rooms.
And last is my personal favorite. These pieces of art (which also happen to light up!) are found on the lanai off the main lobby. They make for a nice picture with the resort in the background, and I’ll have you know…I wasn’t the only person out there taking pictures of them!
I hope that you’ve enjoyed this photo tour of some of the tiny details at Disney’s Aulani Resort. I really do think it is one of Disney’s best themed resorts and while WDW veterans may initially draw comparisons between it and the Animal Kingdom Lodge or Wilderness Lodge, it’s in a league of its own. If you haven’t been here yet, it’s definitely time to consider a trip!
