“Transformation of Los Angeles Fire Victims’ Residences into Dream Homes by Designers”
Keyanna Bowen
It has been several months since the devastating fires swept through the city of Los Angeles, leaving neighborhoods like Palisades and Altadena ravaged and in ruins. The fires, which raged for over three weeks, consumed more than 37,000 acres and destroyed approximately 16,000 structures, including thousands of homes. Ciara Benko, who tragically lost her childhood home in the blaze, is slowly coming to terms with the reality of her loss.
She shared her emotional journey, recounting how she had been trying to stay strong and focused on practical matters since the fire. However, joining a support group recently allowed her to express her feelings and confront the grief that she had been suppressing. Benko, like many others who lost their homes, is now in the process of rebuilding their lives, starting with finding new accommodations and the basic necessities.
As the affected individuals begin to pick up the pieces and move forward, the community has rallied together in a remarkable show of support. From clothing drives to volunteering efforts and donations, the city has come together to aid those in need. Despite the challenges faced, there has been an overwhelming sense of solidarity and generosity among Angelenos, demonstrating compassion and resilience in the face of adversity.
Benko shared heartwarming stories of strangers going above and beyond to help fire victims, bringing joy and comfort during a dark time. From businesses offering discounts and replacements to volunteers like Amanda, who made it her mission to find Benko’s father a new bike, the acts of kindness have made a significant impact on the affected families. Inspired by the community’s support, Benko has compiled a list of organizations and resources to assist victims in their transition to new homes and help them feel a sense of belonging once again.
In the aftermath of the disaster, Benko and her family relied on donations and thrift shopping to furnish their temporary living space and create a sense of comfort. By curating a cozy environment with second-hand items, they attempted to make their new surroundings feel like home. This creative approach provided a much-needed reprieve during a challenging time.
For those seeking free furniture and other essential items, Benko’s resource guide offers a valuable starting point for individuals looking to rebuild their lives after the fire.
Renovate your space with secondhand furniture and design advice with tips on how you can contribute. Discover the best places to shop online for unique decor pieces.
LA CAN DO’s Soft Landing Project, spearheaded by design industry leaders, collects donations of furniture, art, and household items from around the country. These items are stored in an LA warehouse for individuals and families affected by disasters to browse and take what they need. While they are not currently adding to the waitlist, you can still make a donation by filling out a form on their website.
Zello Support, led by Louis Dargenzio, repurposed Sunset Studios’ showroom into a donation center for the entertainment community. They receive shipments of furniture and home goods from film and TV sets daily, providing families with 30-minute shopping slots in their showroom. To secure a slot, visit their site and fill out a form.
Boll & Branch initiated the Helping from Home program in 2020, donating organic cotton bedding to those in need during the pandemic. They extended this initiative to assist families affected by the fires in LA, offering free bedding and sheets. To receive donations, sign up on their donation list.
Everhem, a custom window treatment brand, opened its showroom to fire-affected individuals in January, offering complimentary shades, drapery, and hardware. For free products, contact them via email or direct message on social media.
dClutterfly, a professional organizing service led by Tracy McCubbin, is helping families impacted by disasters by providing furniture and bespoke pieces. To request or donate furniture, reach out to them via email.
Hotel Surplus is providing discounts and donations of new furniture like sleeper sofas and rolling cots to those in need. Contact them via email for more information on available items.
Adam Albright’s Design Advice: The Rebuild Hotline by The Expert is here to assist those in distressing circumstances. Through free one-hour video calls, professional design advice is provided to individuals who have lost their homes, aiming to make the process of curating a new home easier. Consultations are available throughout 2025, allowing you to schedule a session when you’re ready.
The Rebuild Hotline takes into consideration your design preferences and inspirations to match you with a professional who can bring your vision to life. Various organizations are currently offering discounts on replacement items, such as Saatva’s 30% discount on mattresses and The Shade Store’s discounts for replacements.
In addition, companies like Brooklinen, OurPlace, and Thuma are also providing discounts on replacements. Resources for furniture leasing and moving, compiled by real estate firm Brock & Lori, are available as well.
Ciara Benko emphasizes the importance of checking in on friends and neighbors who may have been affected by such situations. Offering support and creating a safe space for them can make a significant difference in their recovery process. Remember, being there for each other is crucial during challenging times.
