Eighteen months after the Eaton and Palisades fires, rebuilding has entered a new phase. Permitting pathways have improved, but new challenges have emerged—from contractor shortages and insurance gaps to evolving fire-resilient building requirements. Drawing on active rebuild projects in Altadena and Malibu, we share what homeowners should know today and how the realities of recovery have changed since the first months after the fires.

Adaptive reuse projects often fail before design begins—not because the idea is weak, but because the early assumptions are. Existing conditions, code triggers, parking, structural limitations, entitlement pathways, and upgrade costs can reshape feasibility long before drawings start. The smartest teams begin with questions, not answers.

Understanding the difference between permit sets and bid sets is critical before starting construction. While permit drawings are designed to obtain approval, they often do not fully define finishes, materials, or construction details—leaving key decisions to be resolved later or through additional services.

Rising construction costs, longer approval timelines, and evolving housing policy are changing the development equation in Los Angeles. As adaptive reuse becomes more feasible citywide, existing buildings are increasingly offering a faster, lower-carbon, and often less risky path forward than starting from scratch.

A practical look at SB 79 through a developer and design lens, focusing on the kinds of housing projects, site strategies, and architectural opportunities the law could unlock near transit in Los Angeles. Rather than simply summarizing the legislation, this article explores what SB 79 may actually mean for feasibility, project typology, and housing form on the ground.

Commercial tenant improvement projects in Los Angeles often involve more than interior renovations. This article explains when tenant improvements trigger a change of occupancy—and how that affects permitting, building codes, and project feasibility.

Adaptive reuse is not a style but an architectural strategy—one that works within existing buildings to transform obsolete structures into viable, code‑compliant spaces. In California, evolving policy, building codes, and incentives have made reuse an increasingly practical alternative to demolition and new construction.

From bland office to creative powerhouse: How Ziese Architecture transformed Marza Animation Planet's Burbank studio into a dynamic workspace that breathes life into Sega's innovative CGI division. This case study shows how smart design can turn a generic space into a catalyst for creativity.

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are one of the most effective ways to add space, income, and flexibility to a Los Angeles property but the process is far from plug-and-play. This guide breaks down how ADUs actually work in LA, what to evaluate before you design, and how to move from idea to approval with clarity and confidence.

The landscape for fire rebuilds has evolved. Learn about what we’ve learned as a firm in approaching a fire rebuild project within the current environment.

Architectural fees vary a lot, the simple reason for this is the quality of drawings aren’t always equal. Poorly made drawings can end up costing you a lot down the road. Learn the importance of having quality drawings done by a boutique firm as opposed to a budget architect, and how this can save money in the long term.

Mr Chow Dubai has officially opened its doors, bringing the brand’s signature elegance and modern style to the city. Featuring a dramatic mirrored ceiling and bold design details, the new second-floor restaurant sets the stage for a truly elevated dining experience.

As fires become an ever more prevalent danger to homes in Southern California, learn architectural strategies that can give your home a better chance against wildfires.

Learn about the process of rebuilding our client’s home after it was lost in the Woolsey Fire, and what rebuilding a home can entail.

Learn more about the executive orders passed in response to the Palisades and Eaton Fires.

Our hearts are with the communities affected by the Palisades and Eaton fires. At Ziese Architecture we wish to provide the knowledge we have as architects to help our communities rebuild.

Many people have a vague understanding of what Architects do, but the process of design and permitting can often be confusing. This guide walks through the process to help those who’d like a better understanding of what hiring an architect entails.