These Prefab Homes Were Designed for Victims of California Wildfires

Sustainable prefab residential design and construction company Plant Prefab has partnered with Sunset Magazine and Malibu-based studio Burdge Architects to create the Sunset BUD LivingHome (SBL), scalable residences for victims of the California wildfires.

As one of various companies who have pitched in to assist those who were displaced by wildfires,  Plant Prefab’s contribution is a flexible accessory dwelling unit (ADU) that started out as a temporary housing solution for victims of the 2018 Woolsey Fire that burned nearly 100,000 acres of land and more than 1,600 homes throughout Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Now, the modular units are being offered as a protective option, thanks to a design that helps them to resist wildfires. In addition to its highly functional aluminum exterior, the homes feature a stylish interior with wood flooring and custom cabinetry.

“The BUD unit is uniquely scalable in size allowing customers to select the square footage that works for their needs in addition to being able to personalize the unit with their choice of finishes. By using modules, you can piece together the perfect prefab home for you and your family,” explains Douglas W. Burdge, AIA, in a press release. “Drawing from our extensive experience in the Malibu landscape, we conceptualized the SBL to be as fire-resistant as possible while at the same time exceptionally well designed.”

The modular units can be configured for various sizes, including a 445-square-foot studio; a 620-square-foot one-bedroom and studio combo; a two-bedroom and studio that measures 900 square feet or a 1200-square-foot two-bedroom with studio and garage. The SBL system starts at $315,000 and is now available for sale.