In a powerful essay, Architecture Associate Professor Victor Jones examines how the Eaton Fire devastated Altadena’s historic Black community, exposing deep inequities in disaster response, recovery resources and long-term displacement. Jones highlights how architects — including his colleague, Architecture Professor Sarah Lorenzen, through her work with TOLO Architecture — are advancing alternative, client-driven recovery models that prioritize affordability, resilience and community agency. Jones ultimately challenges designers to confront whose interests are served in rebuilding efforts as climate disasters increasingly reshape vulnerable communities.

This essay was originally published by Architectural Record on January 7, 2026.