The January 2026 issue of Architectural Record features an article by Joann Gonchar, FAIA, exploring how the International Passive House standard is shaping fire-resilient rebuilding efforts one year after the devastating Altadena and Pacific Palisades fires.
The article highlights the California Rebuild Competition, organized by Passive House Network (PHN) and Passive House California (PHCA). The competition challenged architects to demonstrate how high-performance design, airtight construction, and balanced ventilation can contribute not only to energy efficiency and occupant comfort, but also to enhanced fire resilience.
Among the first-place prize winners featured are architect Timothy Lock of OPAL (Belfast, Maine) and architect and Certified Passive House Designer Christian Kienapfel of PARAVANT Architects (Los Angeles, CA). Their winning proposals demonstrate how rigorous building science, thoughtful detailing, and resilient material strategies can redefine post-disaster housing in California.
To explore all competition entries and results, the full catalog publication is available for download.
