The designer of a Los Angeles residence that remarkably withstood the catastrophic wildfires has shared insights into the ‘design choices’ that contributed to its survival.
Authorities have reported that at least six fires are currently active in the LA area. Among them, the Archer fire remains uncontained since its inception on Friday, January 10.
The tragic fires have claimed at least 11 lives and reportedly wrecked over 10,000 homes and other structures.
There have been accounts of homes standing amidst the devastation, while surrounding properties have been obliterated. These incidents have resulted in extraordinary yet haunting visuals.
One particular photo has gone viral, showcasing a house intact while its neighboring structures have been reduced to ashes.
But what enabled this house to endure?
The architect of the building has provided some insights on Twitter.
“No words really – just a horror show. Some of the design choices we made here helped. But we were also very lucky,” stated the architect known as ‘g chasen’ alongside an image of the house.
“Architect on this. Will share a detailed thread after the dust settles a bit,” the architect further mentioned.
He explained in response to comments on the Twitter post that the house was designed for a friend.
Despite suffering some damage, the architect noted that the home remains ‘totally liveable’.
Describing the house’s survival, ‘g chasen’ wrote: “Also no vents or eaves and tempered glass windows. Lucky that there was bit more space from the neighbors – but unlucky that the neighbor pulled his car into driveway. Solid concrete perimeter wall probably saved us there.”
He added: “The trail of 1200° molten aluminum stands out. The neighbor moved his car into the driveway before leaving – this may have burned his house down.”
Regarding the damage, the architect mentioned: “A couple glass panels will require replacement. Otherwise fine. A tiny bit of ash residue collected on the interior sill there.”
David Steiner, a Texas resident, also found fortune as his $9 million Malibu mansion remains standing despite the fires threatening his property.
Steiner explained to the New York Post that the mansion’s ‘ultra-sturdy construction’ likely contributed to its survival.
“It’s stucco and stone with a fireproof roof,’’ he said.