Why environmental resilience is the future of home design

"In January 2025, Los Angeles suffered an unspeakable wildfire tragedy, destroying at least 17,000 structures, and with tens of thousands of people forced out of their homes. Almost immediately, government officials declared a state of emergency and laid out a path to rebuild " like for like." However, in the aftermath of such disasters when rebuilding from the ground up, is "like for like" the best way to proceed? These disasters provide an opportunity to future-proof our neighborhoods for the next generation of environmental challenges."

"PLAYING WITH FIRE In L.A. alone, just over quarter of a million homes are located in hillside high-fire hazard zones. The allure of views and exclusivity often comes with increased risk as most flames, especially wind-driven ones, spread much faster uphill. Any upslope overhanging structures, such as wooden decks, provide perfect fuel for upslope fires and once ignited, the flames easily transfer to any connected structure."

"Having a fuel modification zone-a clear area of land around structures that essentially removes fuel for wildfires-is a definite first step. The use of noncombustible materials should be encouraged including wood composites, standing seam metal roofs, and noncombustible cladding-like plaster, or Hardie panels-made from a combination of cement, sand, cellulose fibers, and other additives. These remain intact for several hours before beginning to break down, even when exposed to high heat."

January 2025 wildfires in Los Angeles destroyed at least 17,000 structures and displaced tens of thousands of residents, prompting a state of emergency and plans to rebuild like for like. Rebuilding offers a chance to future-proof neighborhoods against floods, fires, rising temperatures, and energy crises. Over a quarter-million homes lie in hillside high-fire hazard zones where flames move faster uphill and upslope wooden features like decks serve as fuel. Fuel modification zones around structures reduce available wildfire fuel. Use of noncombustible materials—wood composites, standing-seam metal roofs, plaster or Hardie panels—extends fire resistance. Perforated metal fire shields can repel embers while shading homes.

Read at Fast Company