After the Fire: What I’ve Learned About Rebuilding with Intention

After losing my home in the Eaton Fire, I’ve found myself—like so many neighbors—facing the enormous task of rebuilding. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by everything that needs to happen. But as I’ve started down this road, I’ve come to see the process not just as a challenge, but as a rare opportunity: a chance to design a home that truly supports the next chapter of life.

Whether that means creating a warm and welcoming Craftsman-style home for a growing family, or a single-story Mediterranean retreat that fits a more active, low-maintenance lifestyle, rebuilding offers the chance to shape a space that reflects your values, comforts you daily, and adapts to how you actually live.

But that kind of thoughtful planning doesn’t happen overnight.

The right team makes all the difference. Architects and designers who know the local codes, the rebuild process, and the emotional weight of starting over can help lift the burden. They can guide everything from floorplans and finishes to budgeting and permitting—translating your ideas into a clear, coordinated plan.

One of the most common questions I hear from others on this journey is: Who does what? It’s a great question—especially when you’re working with both an architect and an interior designer. Ideally, they collaborate from the beginning, with roles clearly defined. Often, the interior designer joins the team once the architect has completed the schematic design—meaning the big-picture layout, site analysis, and 3D massing studies are complete. That’s when the real creative work begins.

Design is iterative—it takes time, conversation, and exploration. Those “what if we tried…” discussions aren’t just productive, they’re essential. Investing that time upfront pays off with a smoother build and fewer surprises down the line.

If you’re looking for someone local who understands this process firsthand, my friend Gail Jamentz at Soul Interiors is a fantastic resource. She also lost her home in the fire and brings both empathy and expertise to the table. You can reach her at 626-795-3185.

Rebuilding after a fire isn’t easy. But with the right team and a little patience, it’s absolutely possible to come out the other side with a home that’s not just new—but better. If you’re in the thick of it too, know that you’re not alone. There’s a path forward, and support along the way.