Pacific Palisades, California
After the Los Angeles wildfires in January 2025, Crest Real Estate, a real estate and permit expediting firm, has organized a group of architects to provide pre-designed resilient model homes for the rebuilding effort in the Pacific Palisades. This project is part of that Case Study 2.0 effort.
Following the example set by the original Case Study Program, the design reacts to the contemporary issues facing residential construction during this challenging time. It addresses affordability, adaptability, fire resistance, sustainability and resilience, healthy indoor-outdoor living, the creation of private shelter and its integration into a vibrant neighborhood.
The sensible size and the varied massing of the design and its openness to the street help integrate the residence into the surrounding neighborhood, presenting an appropriate scale and rejecting the mansionization of the area. An articulated plan and section create varied living spaces, including a double-height dining area, all connected seamlessly to the exterior. An upper floor deck acts as an outdoor porch and connects the house to the sidewalk, while patios and a balcony in the back offer more secluded privacy.
The use of off-the-shelf materials, assembled in standard ways, the multi-purpose application of elements for both structure and finishes, and the streamlined layout and organization of the plans all help keeping costs under control.
Highly fire-resistant materials used throughout the exterior address the issue foremost on everyone’s mind with this fire rebuild, the hardening and defense of the structure for any possible future events.
Solar panels, all-electric building systems and appliances, natural daylight and ventilation, drought-resistant landscaping all contribute to a sustainable building, set lightly into the Southern California landscape.
While the plan is clearly and cleanly laid out, the chosen materials offer a variety of options and combinations, allowing the house to be customized to its owner’s preferences. A thoughtful spatial arrangement, complemented by individualized elements and a strong indoor-outdoor connection throughout the residence, contribute to a strong sense of place.
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single family residence
architecture, interiors, hardscape
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