Rebuilding Malibu & The Palisades Better
At Burdge Architects, we believe that with every challenge comes an opportunity to innovate and improve. The devastation of the Woolsey Fire taught us invaluable lessons about the importance of designing homes that can withstand the growing threats of wildfires. These experiences shaped our mission to develop systems and processes that not only support victims in their journey to rebuild but also ensure their new homes are safer, stronger, and more resilient.
Striving for a Model of Resiliency
In the aftermath of the Palisades Fire, we were astonished to see that one of the residences we had the privilege of building survived unscathed amidst a landscape of destruction. This home stood as a solitary beacon of resilience in an otherwise devastated area. Upon first seeing the photos, we were in utter disbelief, as we’re sure the homeowners were too. This remarkable outcome has become a source of pride and a driving motivation for our team. Once we can safely access the property, we will conduct a thorough analysis to determine which elements of the design and construction contributed to its survival, using this knowledge to guide future projects.
Best Practices for Fire-Resilient Homes
Our work has led us to adopt and advocate for a series of best practices to “harden” homes against wildfires. These strategies are rooted in both research and real-world outcomes, ensuring homes are better equipped to face future threats:
Seal Vulnerable Openings: Attic crawl spaces or vents that can allow embers to enter
Fire-Resistant Landscaping: Maintaining defensible space by planting vegetation away from the home and using fire-resistant plants and materials.
Eave Design: Minimize eaves to reduce areas where embers can collect.
Class A Materials: Use of non-combustible materials for roofs, siding, and decking to maximize fire resistance.
Windows and Doors: Dual-pane tempered glass windows and fire-rated doors can provide added protection.
These steps, paired with meticulous design and construction, can make the difference between losing and protecting a home during a wildfire.
Navigating the Rebuilding Process
Rebuilding after a wildfire involves more than design and construction; it requires navigating a maze of permits, insurance claims, and government mandates. At Burdge Architects, we assist homeowners in tackling these challenges head-on, providing expertise and support at every step. From managing permit applications and ensuring compliance with evolving fire safety codes to guiding clients through insurance processes and connecting them with available resources and aid, we work tirelessly to simplify the rebuilding journey. Our goal is to remove as many obstacles as possible so families can focus on reclaiming their homes and their lives.
A Mission to Rebuild Stronger
Our passion for helping those affected by wildfires runs deep. At Burdge Architects, we’re committed to passing on what we’ve learned and applying these best practices to every project we undertake. Rebuilding better is not just a professional responsibility—it’s a deeply personal mission. We must rebuild in a way that ensures no one has to endure the same level of loss again.
If you’re navigating the path to recovery and are ready to rebuild with resilience and innovation, we’re here to help. Together, we can create homes that not only honor your vision but also protect what matters most.