Our Story

Sharing an Ambitious Dream

 

In 1979 Thomas Sorensen, after opening Scan Design on Beretania Street, envisioned a world class retail concept that would serve both the designers of Hawaii and the people who live here. Not just a place to ‘buy’ furniture… but a warm, welcoming venue to have fun, dream and be inspired.

 

1981 welcomed the opening of Scan Line Office Interiors on King Street. This (designer oriented) store introduced to the quickly growing businesses on Oahu and the neighbor islands to a full complement of contemporary office furnishings and seating. Scan Line offered a bright team of designer/sales associates capable of working with both budget controls and deadline demands. Acquiring and maintaining an on-island inventory distribution center, furniture assemblers / installers and a full service  delivery fleet was crucial to the success and satisfaction of our corporate clientele.

 

Then, INspiration Interiors opened in 1997 at Pearlridge Center.  A visionary concept store that filled a void for contemporary affordable home furnishings that the new family / first time home owners were craving for. Displaying clean uncluttered styles in color palettes that “inspired” both young and senior customers. Furnishings that fit and complemented the proportions of island-style homes and condominiums. 

 

In 2005, Thomas broke ground on the Honolulu Design Center, on Kapiolani Blvd., and a long time dream had come true. INspiration’s flagship store in the Honolulu Design Center offers you a glimpse at the ever changing world of contemporary furniture trends. It is also the home of the award winning Stage Restaurant; the very popular Amuse Wine Bar; and the uniquely versatile Cupola Events Gallery, all owned and operated by the Sorensen family.

 

Now in 3 convenient locations… Honolulu, Kapolei Commons and Pearlridge Center, INspiration has expanded its support to the growth and welfare to the people and our island communities of Hawaii. With great success we have partnered with local charitable organizations like Hawaii Foodbank, the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii and Ho’ola Na Pua and have invited you, our customers, to donate and help continue the wonderful work that’s being done for the future of our home, Hawaii. 

 

In 2018, Thomas’ daughter, Julia Sorensen Shaw, and son-in-law, Kimber Shaw, joined the INspiration team. INspiration has always been a family owned and operated business and they anticipate a long and bright future serving Hawaii, and sincerely thank all of you for your continued support. 

 

We welcome you and your family to come visit and have fun shopping, meeting friends, dining out and being inspired to dream of all the possibilities. See you soon…