We are so excited to announce Artisans Group's recent competition awards! Put on by the Passive House Network, the California Rebuilds competition was an opportunity to provide residents with designs to rebuild their homes after the devastating Palisades fires in Los Angeles.
The manzanita tree, with smooth red bark and sculptural silhouette, evolved over millennia to thrive in the face of fire. A bridge between what is and what will be, manzanita symbolizes rooted belonging and hard-won ecological wisdom.
The Manzanita House draws from this spirit—a place-based response shaped by the elements, designed for longevity, and built to thrive amid a changing climate. With a nod to Spanish Colonial tradition and a wink to contemporary aesthetics, this Passive House balances warmth, efficiency, and deep respect for place.
Inspired by the character of Altadena and Pacific Palisades neighborhoods, the 3 bedroom design embraces a smaller, smarter footprint. It takes advantage of Like-for-Like rebuilding rules to streamline permitting, while every detail—from the airtight envelope to solar panel placement—meets rigorous Passive House standards. Prefabrication is utilized for faster build and cost efficiency. Designed with aging in place in mind, it uses solar orientation, low-impact materials, and proven building science to deliver comfort, durability, and beauty.
We were honored to win 2nd place in the Spanish Colonial Revival group, and receive the Students Choice Award, decided by a group of Los Angeles high school students learning about passive house principles! Thank you again to the Passive House Network for this recognition.
Posted on November 25, 2025
