Building Hope, Brick by Green Brick: tlrs Partners with HelpDrawTogether to Provide No-Cost Home Plans in Response to Eaton Fire

Originally Posted: April 7th, 2025

In times of crisis and hardship, the fundamental need for safe and stable housing becomes paramount. Recognizing this, the team at tlrs architecture has joined forces with the incredible initiative HelpDrawTogether to launch "Altaforma", a collaborative effort dedicated to providing no-cost home plans for families in need, with a particular focus on supporting the resilient community of Altadena following the devastating Eaton Fire. This powerful partnership aims to expedite the process of getting people back into their homes with efficiency and compassion, acknowledging the profound impact of this tragedy on a community deeply connected to its history and natural beauty.

Altaforma brings together a wealth of expertise in architectural design and innovative building solutions. The core team includes Chun Shen Chang of Module Cell, known for their forward-thinking modular designs, and Lowell Morin of the renowned firm Perkins Eastman, bringing extensive experience in large-scale and sustainable architecture. This diverse skillset, combined with tlrs architecture's commitment to community-focused design, forms a formidable force for positive change, especially crucial for the Altadena community as it navigates the long road to recovery after the heartbreaking Eaton Fire.

The Eaton Fire served as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating impact of natural disasters. For the residents of Altadena, a community known for its strong bonds and deep appreciation for the stunning natural landscape of the greater Pasadena area, the loss of homes and the disruption of lives has been immense. Yet, amidst the tragedy, the resilience of the Altadena community has shone brightly. Their unwavering spirit and determination to rebuild have inspired Altaforma to focus our initial efforts on providing tangible support to these affected families.

Our objective is clear: to help as many people as possible in Altadena and surrounding areas regain the security and comfort of their own homes, and to do so with speed and efficiency. We understand that time is of the essence when families are displaced, and Altaforma is structured to streamline the planning phase, a crucial first step in the rebuilding process. We are acutely aware of the deep connection the residents of the greater Pasadena area have with their history and the breathtaking beauty that surrounds them, from the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains to the architectural heritage of Pasadena itself. Our designs will strive to honor this context, blending functionality with an aesthetic sensitivity that respects the unique character of the region.

Beyond traditional construction methods, Altaforma is actively exploring the exciting potential of straw bale homes. This sustainable and cost-effective building technique offers numerous benefits, including excellent insulation, use of readily available materials, and a lower environmental impact – considerations that align with the community's appreciation for the natural environment. Furthermore, we are inspired by the Habitat for Humanity model and envision a community-driven construction process. By engaging local volunteers and future homeowners in the building of these straw bale homes, we aim to foster a renewed sense of ownership, empowerment, and community resilience within Altadena.

Imagine families not just receiving a house, but actively participating in its creation, alongside their neighbors and friends who have also been impacted by the Eaton Fire. This collaborative approach can significantly reduce construction costs and rebuild stronger community bonds in the process, offering a tangible path forward for a community that has faced significant adversity. The simplicity and accessibility of straw bale construction make it an ideal candidate for such a community-build model in Altadena.

Altaforma’s commitment extends beyond just providing blueprints. We aim to create adaptable and thoughtfully designed home plans that meet the specific needs of the families in Altadena and the surrounding areas. By considering factors like family size, accessibility requirements, and the unique climate of the region, we strive to create spaces that are not just functional, but truly feel like home, reflecting the spirit and character of the greater Pasadena area.

This partnership between tlrs architecture and HelpDrawTogether, under the banner of Altaforma, represents a powerful fusion of design expertise, humanitarian spirit, and innovative building practices, specifically directed towards aiding the resilient Altadena community in the wake of the Eaton Fire. We believe that everyone deserves a safe and dignified place to live, especially those who have endured such loss, and we are determined to leverage our skills and resources to make that a reality for as many families as possible in this cherished corner of the greater Pasadena area.