In response to the devastating wildfires and the growing impact of natural disasters in Los Angeles and beyond, AIA|LA introduces the Resilient Design Award to its Residential Architecture Awards program. This category recognizes innovative residential projects—either built or conceptual—that exemplify resilience and adaptability in the face of environmental challenges. Both professionals and students are eligible to submit in this new category.
Projects in this category should address site-specific geography and climate conditions, showcasing strategies that enhance safety and resistance to fire, earthquakes, flooding, and other natural disasters. Submissions should demonstrate thoughtful integration of materials, technologies, and design approaches that prioritize occupant safety while maintaining architectural excellence.
The Resilient Design Award celebrates the role of architects in creating homes that not only withstand but thrive in the face of adversity, serving as beacons of hope and ingenuity for communities rebuilding and adapting to a changing world.
AIA|LA will donate 5% of the registration fee to the California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Recovery Fund, supporting those impacted by recent wildfires.
Read more about the Resilient Design category and the Residential Design Awards program here.
Affected by the wildfires or looking for ways to help? Find AIA|LA’s Wildfire Response and Resources here.
AIA|LA kicked off its Wildfire Disaster Response Task Force on January 15. Interested individuals may sign up to volunteer with AIA in Los Angeles and Pasadena. Additional resources for those in need and those who wish to help are also provided on this page.