Materials & Systems after the Eaton Fire

Herwig Baumgartner moderated a panel on post fire materials and systems

March 22nd, 2025

Materials and Systems After the Eaton Fire – Panel Discussion

Following the Eaton Fire in Altadena, Herwig Baumgartner and Sophie Pennetier co-moderated a panel titled Materials and Systems After the Fire, convening leading experts to explore strategies for sustainable and resilient community reconstruction.

The discussion brought together Nate Wittasek, P.E., CFEI, LEED AP, CASp, Kishani De Silva, and Alex Sexsmith, AIA, who shared insights on fire-resistant materials, adaptive building systems, and forward-thinking design methods addressing climate-driven wildfire challenges.

The panel highlighted how architecture, material innovation, and design technology can collectively advance safer, more sustainable rebuilding efforts—transforming post-disaster recovery into an opportunity for resilient community renewal.