Podcast Interview: REBUILDING THE PALISADES hosted by DSI
Podcast Recap Featuring Douglas Burdge, AIA of Burdge Architects
We’re grateful to DSI for inviting Douglas Burdge, AIA, founder of Burdge Architects, to join a podcast episode this week, diving into the complexities of rebuilding in California. This thoughtful conversation explored everything from the emotional toll of wildfire loss to practical, forward-thinking strategies for fire-resilient and sustainable design.
For anyone navigating the challenges of rebuilding in Malibu or the Palisades, this conversation offers real insight and direction. Find a summary of the conversation, with a link to watch the full interview below.
An Architecture Passion Rooted in Purpose
Douglas Burdge’s path to architecture was shaped early by family. With close relatives in the profession—including a well-established uncle with a firm in Orange County—there was always an awareness of what a life in design could look like. Although construction initially seemed like the logical path, architecture ultimately offered a deeper blend of creativity, problem-solving, and purpose. That realization led to what’s now a decades-long career guided by the belief that architecture is, above all, a passion profession.
Designing with Nature: Architect Lessons from Cabo San Lucas
A pivotal chapter unfolded in the early years when a client invited the firm to design homes in Cabo San Lucas—long before the region became a global destination. Designing in this remote, hurricane-prone environment brought practical lessons that still influence the firm’s work today: build with durable materials like concrete block, lean into the climate with indoor-outdoor living, and avoid unnecessary hallways in favor of intuitive flow.
Ideas like detached guest casitas and layouts inspired by boutique hotels emerged from those early projects and remain part of the firm’s design DNA—especially when applied to fire rebuilds in Malibu and the Palisades.
Redefining Sustainability: The Burge Architect Standard
The conversation also spotlighted a milestone collaboration: California’s first certified zero-carbon homes, referred to as 01 and 02, designed in partnership with DSI. These all-electric homes use low-impact materials and thoughtful systems that prioritize comfort, efficiency, and long-term performance.
Crucially, the team followed up with homeowners years after move-in to understand how the systems held up. The overwhelmingly positive feedback confirmed that building sustainably doesn’t mean sacrificing livability. These insights have helped shape what the firm now calls the Burge Standard—a proactive commitment to integrating energy-smart, carbon-conscious design into every project, from new construction to fire rebuilds.
Designing Through Loss, Moving Ahead After Malibu Fires
Rebuilding after wildfire loss is not just a technical challenge—it’s an emotional one. For many clients, the design process begins while still grieving. That’s especially true in places like Malibu and Pacific Palisades, where fires have deeply impacted communities. Having personally lost offices to wildfire, the Burdge Architects team approaches each fire rebuild with empathy and understanding.
In those early stages, architects often play the role of counselor as much as designer. Some families arrive overwhelmed, others full of ideas. For example, one couple in their seventies even came in with a plan for a shipping container home. Those moments—when people feel hopeful again—are what make this work deeply rewarding.
What Fire Resilience in Home Design Really Means
The podcast also unpacked what true fire resiliency looks like in a home. It’s not about opting for trendy materials—it’s about understanding what actually protects a structure under extreme conditions.
Reducing ember intrusion, eliminating crawl spaces and attic vents, and selecting non-combustible siding and metal roofing are key. In densely built coastal neighborhoods like Malibu, radiant heat from a nearby burning home can be just as destructive as flames. That’s why fire rebuilds here require both structural smarts and strategic site planning.
Why Rebuilding After Wildfires Takes So Long
The time and cost involved in rebuilding after a wildfire can be staggering. Many homeowners lack full insurance coverage, and current construction costs often exceed $800 per square foot. In the aftermath of the Woolsey Fire, some families were only able to rebuild thanks to class-action lawsuit settlements—but these are resources that may not be available in the future.
On top of that are the logistical hurdles: navigating permits, meeting Coastal Commission requirements, upgrading septic systems, and adapting to new FEMA floodplain regulations. All of these factors make fire rebuilds in areas like Malibu and Pacific Palisades particularly complex.
Community Response and Long-Term Vision at Burdge
That complexity is why community-based efforts like RE-BU (Rebuild Malibu) and the Malibu Foundation have become so essential. These initiatives bring together architects, builders, donors, and city officials to offer resources, education, and direct support to fire-affected families. Programs like the Malibu Brigades—local groups of trained homeowners—are also helping harden neighborhoods and prevent loss before the next fire.
While these fires are devastating, there are also opportunities in recovery. In the Palisades and other hillside areas, power lines are now being buried to reduce risk. Water systems are being upgraded to improve hydrant capacity, and modern septic solutions are becoming standard in fire-prone zones. These aren’t just technical upgrades—they’re part of a broader shift toward resilience.
Leading with Innovation, Architecture Evolution
Through collaborations with the American Institute of Architects and continued outreach via the Malibu Foundation and BUHAUS initiative, Burdge Architects is helping lead the conversation on what it means to build smarter—before disaster strikes. Whether it’s educating kids on living in fire-prone areas or advising local policymakers, the goal is the same: help communities prepare, adapt, and endure.
Responding to Malibu and Palisade Fires by Looking Ahead
As shared in the podcast, “We live in a fireplace”—and we must design accordingly. That means accepting that fire is part of life in places like Malibu and Pacific Palisades, and responding with architecture that’s resilient, responsive, and rooted in community.
For those navigating a fire rebuild—or simply planning their next chapter—this conversation is a powerful reminder that rebuilding isn’t just about the home. It’s about honoring the past, protecting the present, and designing for a stronger future.
To listen to the full podcast episode, visit the links below:
YOUTUBE (Video): Youtube - Doug Burdge Podcast Episode
SPOTIFY (Audio Only): Spotify - Doug Burdge Podcast Episode
APPLE (Audio Only):Apple - Doug Burdge Podcast Episode
