In January 2025, Colleen and Jason Warnesky watched the Eaton Fire blaze through their neighborhood in Altadena, California. They had seen wildfires before, like the Station Fire in 2009 and the massive Bobcat Fire that followed. Each time, their home survived. But fifteen months later, they found themselves standing on a cleared lot where their 1,400-square-foot home once stood, waiting for new construction to finally begin.
The Warneskys are not alone. Many families in their area are choosing to rebuild with manufactured homes. A local program from city-LAB UCLA showcased options for prefab housing and provided guidance on the financing process. This shift reflects a larger trend: people in disaster-prone regions are seeking safer homes that can better withstand fires and other challenges linked to climate change.
More families are turning to prefabricated homes, which use materials designed for fire resistance and durability against severe weather. Companies today offer structures that can withstand hurricane winds of up to 250 mph, withstand earthquakes, and endure extreme rain and snow. Prices for these homes can vary widely, from under $100 to over $500 per square foot. However, they often come in lower than traditional building costs.
Jason shared that friends in his neighborhood are also opting for various prefab companies. They feel overwhelmed after experiencing loss and navigating complicated insurance claims. The simplicity and speed of choosing a prefab option felt like a blessing to them.
Colleen emphasized safety as another compelling reason for their choice. Their new home, constructed mainly from glass, steel, and concrete, is specially designed for “wildland urban interface” areas—where developments meet natural vegetation.
The Manufactured Housing Institute reports that about 21 million Americans live in manufactured or mobile homes. In 2024, these homes made up more than 9% of new builds, appealing especially to first-time buyers. With many sales happening in areas frequently hit by natural disasters like floods and fires, experts like Harrison Langley, CEO of MDLR Brands, believe traditional building methods are no longer sustainable.
Langley points out that building materials today are not as strong as they used to be. For example, modern two-by-fours don’t measure up to the same standards as decades ago. His company utilizes composite structural insulated panels that offer a 30-minute fire rating, significantly enhancing safety. These materials not only resist fire but also allow homes to withstand earthquakes and hurricane winds.
Notably, the growing popularity of accessory dwelling units is easing public acceptance of modular homes. People are getting used to seeing them in their neighborhoods. However, for some, design and aesthetics remain barriers.
For instance, after losing their 1940s house in the Eaton Fire, Linda and Liam Mennis opted for a custom manufactured home instead of a cookie-cutter model. They are working with Bevy House, which transforms architectural plans into modular designs. Their approach emphasizes personalized aesthetics, leading to visually appealing homes that don’t sacrifice individuality.
The roots of modular design date back much further than recent trends. Architects Ray and Charles Eames envisioned affordable and attractive modular homes in the mid-20th century. Their work set a foundation for what’s possible today, showing that innovation in home design is not a recent phenomenon. Now, Eames’ vision is being revived with modern materials and technology to create customizable homes that still have the spirit of those early designs.
As the risks from climate change continue to grow, rebuilding in safer, sustainable ways is more important than ever. The Warneskys’ journey mirrors what many families face: seeking not just a house, but a home that offers peace of mind.
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