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LA Building Trends: Innovative Designs and Developments

Los Angeles wildfires: Developers face scrutiny after 18,000 structures destroyed.

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s Los Angeles rebuilds from the devastating wildfires that forced over 200,000 to evacuate and destroyed more than 18,000 structures, developers and architects are under pressure to create not just quick fixes but smart solutions. Here's a look at six companies with innovative approaches to rebuilding the city.

    Ark Container Homes was founded by Joshua Clark, who lost his home in New Orleans to Hurricane Ida and in Malibu to a mudslide. Frustrated with traditional building methods, Clark created a company that builds housing units entirely out of recycled shipping containers. The units are made from "one-trippers" – containers that have only traveled once around the Pacific Ocean and are nearly brand-new. Prices start at $39,000 for a 20-foot unit and $69,000 for a 40-foot unit.

    RSG 3-D is a New York-based building technology firm focused on long-term durability in rebuilding Los Angeles. The company uses a monolithic panel system made from expanded polystyrene, steel trusses, and concrete to create climate-resilient and energy-efficient walls. RSG 3-D has manufactured over 6,000 buildings worldwide and claims a no-damage record since its inception in 2018.

    Azure Printed Homes is a Gardena-based construction company that uses 3D printing technology to manufacture residential suites. The firm was founded by Gene Eidelman and Ross Maguire, who previously worked on sustainable and emergency relief solutions. Azure offers two prototypes – studio units for $50,000 and two-bedroom units for $95,000 – which can be made in three to four weeks from design to installation.

    Form Found Design is a Venice-based architecture firm that uses technology to create innovative building systems. The company's founders, Ron Culver and Joseph Sarafian, are working with five families in the Palisades to redesign their homes using fire-resilient materials and techniques. Form Found Design is also collaborating with non-profits in Altadena on potential rebuilds.

    KB Home has developed a wildfire-resistant community called Dixon Trail in Escondido, which features 64 homes designed to withstand wildfires. The development includes fire-rated roofs, non-combustible gutters, and upgraded windows and doors. KB Home claims that Dixon Trail will serve as a model for research and development of wildfire mitigation actions at both the home and neighborhood level.

    Cover Technologies is a modular construction firm based in Gardena that produces all-steel, custom modular housing units. The company's CEO, Alexis Rivas, believes that modular design will be key in streamlining Los Angeles' rebuilding efforts. Cover has talked to over 300 individuals impacted by the wildfires and is currently in the permitting process on several rebuilds.

Los Angeles building trends: innovative designs and developments in cityscape architecture.