Amidst the devastating California wildfires that ravaged Malibu in early January 2025, one mansion stood tall, seemingly untouched by the inferno. While neighboring multi-million dollar homes were reduced to ashes, this concrete structure emerged as a symbol of resilience, defying the odds and capturing the attention of the world, quickly earning the nickname "the last house standing."
The "last house standing" is a $9 million, three-story white structure owned by David Steiner, a retired waste-management expert. Actually this architectural marvel was originally designed by famed architect Tadao Ando and was previously owned by Kanye West. The mansion was then purchased by Belmont, "Bo" Belmont of Belwood Investments. Belmont on his instagram account stated that all of his were untouched by the fire. He confirmed that all the workers who were working on the renovations were safe and that work would resume after things are under control.
Steiner had evacuated his home when the fire erupted, fearing the worst. He was shell shocked when his contractor sent him a video of flames engulfing his property but when the smoke cleared, Steiner's mansion was intact, a stark contrast to the charred remains surrounding it.
The mansion's survival can be attributed to its robust construction. The original home was built in 2013; 1,200 tons of concrete and 200 tons of reinforced steel were used for the construction. It was built atop sand, supported by 12 massive caissons driven 60 feet into the bedrock. The house also features stucco and stone walls with a fireproof roof. The pilings were 50 feet into the bedrock to keep it steady.
This combination of earthquake-resistant features helped the building to be a fortress against the flames. The design though intended for one type of disaster inadvertently provided protection against another. The mansion's ability to withstand the fire reflects the importance of design and construction in mitigating risks involved during natural disasters. The mansion's survival has bought about the need for improved fire safety measures and community preparedness in wildfire-prone areas.
The wildfires that swept through Malibu in January 2025 was the most destructive in California's history. And fueled by strong Santa Ana winds, the fires rapidly spread across the region, consuming homes, businesses, and vast stretches of land.
The fires caused immense loss, but the "last house standing" offers a mascot of hope and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, miracles can happen.
