In the wake of the recent Los Angeles wildfires, one Malibu mansion stood unscathed amid widespread devastation. David Steiner, a retired waste-management businessman, attributes his home’s survival to its robust construction.
Steiner’s $9 million, 4,200-square-foot, four-bedroom home was the sole property left standing after the Palisades fire ravaged his neighborhood. The mansion’s design includes stucco and stone walls, a fireproof roof, and pilings driven 50 feet into bedrock, features intended to withstand earthquakes. These elements likely played a crucial role in protecting the house from the flames.
Initially, Steiner feared his home was lost when a local contractor sent him footage showing flames engulfing neighboring properties. However, to his astonishment, his mansion remained intact, standing tall amidst the ruins. “I started getting pictures and realized we had made it through,” Steiner remarked.
Despite his relief, Steiner expressed empathy for those less fortunate, acknowledging that while he lost property, others lost their homes filled with personal memories. He emphasized the importance of material goods in comparison to personal loss, stating, “Don’t pray for me; what I lost is material goods.”
The Los Angeles wildfires have destroyed over 5,000 homes and businesses, with strong winds and dry conditions exacerbating the situation. Authorities continue to investigate the causes, including potential arson in certain areas.
Steiner’s experience underscores the significance of resilient construction in disaster-prone regions, offering valuable insights for homeowners and builders aiming to safeguard properties against natural calamities.
