Rising After Woolsey

The Woolsey Fire, one of the most destructive wildfires in California’s history, ravaged nearly 100,000 acres in November 2018. Stretching from Simi Valley to the Malibu coastline, it claimed over 500 homes and forever altered the landscape of this iconic region. This was not just another news cycle or a series of statistics. These were our neighbors in our backyard.

The Woolsey Fire became a call to action, inspiring us to channel our expertise into helping families rebuild their lives with homes that honor their vision and stand resilient against future threats.

Transforming Loss into Opportunity

Through the REBU initiative, we’ve partnered with local families to rebuild more than 30 homes across Malibu. From obtaining permits to final inspections, we’ve guided homeowners every step of the way. Projects like the restoration of the June Motel and other private residences reflect our commitment to quality, sustainability, and fire-safe construction. Each home tells a story of resilience and renewal, blending cutting-edge design with practical solutions to better protect against future challenges.

Introducing REBU: A Resource by Locals, for Locals

In the immediate aftermath of the Woolsey Fire, Doug Burdge and his team recognized the urgent need for support. They formed REBU, a division focused exclusively on helping Malibu families navigate the rebuilding process. With in-depth local knowledge and expertise, REBU provides:

  • Streamlined Processes: Managing permits, insurance challenges, and compliance with updated fire codes.

  • Innovative Solutions: Incorporating fire-resistant materials, sustainable designs, and modern prefab options.

  • Personalized Support: Offering hands-on guidance to ensure every homeowner’s vision is realized.

Rebuilding Malibu – Our Commitment to Fire Recovery

In a recent blog, Rebuilding Malibu – Our Commitment to Fire Recovery, we dive deeper into our role in this ongoing journey. It highlights the milestones we’ve achieved, the obstacles we’ve faced, and the hope we share with every family we help. We invite you to explore the blog to learn more about the progress we’ve made and our unwavering dedication to help the victims who have lost homes to fire.

Rebuilding Discussion on “The Malibu Podcast”

In December 2024, Doug Burdge joined The Malibu Podcast. Part of the discussion reflected on the aftermath of the Woolsey Fire. Through this candid conversation, Doug shared his commitment to helping families recover while offering insights on streamlining the rebuilding process. He discussed exploring fire-resistant materials, developing innovative prefab home solutions, and the importance of listening to the unique needs of each homeowner. This thoughtful dialogue showcases how Doug’s personal experiences and professional expertise have transformed challenges into meaningful opportunities to better serve the Malibu and Pacific Palisades community.

Moving Forward Together

At Burdge Architects, we believe in building more than just houses—we’re building hope, resilience, and a stronger future for Malibu. If you’re ready to start your rebuilding journey or want to learn more about our work, reach out to us today.