Fire Resilience

Our changing climate makes it necessary to learn to live with fire and rethink how we build in the growing number of fire-prone areas throughout the western US. Luckily, we can design our built environment to be more resilient to fire and other disasters. When resilient design principles are combined with fire-resistant materials, window systems and landscaping, structures are more likely to be safe for sheltering in place during an emergency, thus avoiding the potential dangers of mass evacuation.

Indigo recently designed a fire-resistant, zero net energy house near Paradise, California, a community that was all but destroyed by the Camp Fire in 2018. This supremely energy-efficient home can run off the grid using a small photovoltaic (solar panel) system and battery storage. The PV system powers the house and residents’ electric vehicles. 

With special attention to fire resistant roof and eaves, as well insulated metal window shutters that can be closed during a wildfire, residents in some environments may be able to shelter in place during a disaster and will be well-equipped to live comfortably during any interruption in the power grid. This is truly the home of the future, providing safety from the risks of climate change while doing its part to reduce carbon emissions. It offers all the daily benefits of a passive house, with the added security of fire-resilience.