In 1871, the Great Chicago Fire left one in three residents homeless, drastically reshaping the city’s architecture and construction practices. This disaster, like others throughout history, spurred significant changes in building codes, particularly regarding fire protection. Over time, such events have driven the evolution of design and construction standards, influencing everything from spatial layouts to structural integrity. The selection of materials and finishes, in particular, is often guided by the function and occupancy requirements of a building. Given the ongoing challenges posed by events like the recent fires in Los Angeles, it’s likely that we will continue to see similar shifts in fire protection laws and regulations, shaping the future of design and construction.
Before the Great Chicago Fire, which destroyed 17,500 buildings, most construction materials had poor fire resistance. Some buildings, like the Waterworks building, had attempted fireproofing measures, such as slate roofs, to provide an additional layer of protection. However, the main structures, with their low fire resistance, allowed the flames to spread rapidly, consuming about 73 miles of the city. In response, Chicago saw a shift toward masonry construction, with brick, limestone, marble, and stone becoming more prevalent. Terra cotta gained popularity for commercial and hospitality buildings, and architectural styles became more streamlined, with simpler designs and fewer ornamental details, helping to reduce both costs and construction time.
The sad truth, following many of the recent fires over the past decade, is that California has adopted laws regarding wildfire construction techniques and codes. In 1987, the concept of Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) was introduced. The concept is that areas where human development borders wildland vegetation face a higher risk of wildfire. In 2000, this zone was officially recognized by the federal government. Due to the requirement for more restrictive construction techniques in the WUI zone, the California Building Code adopted Chapter 7A in 2008. This requires fire-resistant construction in areas that are prone to wildfire. Many of California’s homes were built before these became law. Sadly, many parts of the state do not require the adoption of Chapter 7A or WUI standards, though they should.
Following the recent devastation caused by the Palisades and Eaton Fires, authorities estimate that over 12,000 buildings were destroyed across Los Angeles. This immense loss has highlighted the urgent need to strengthen fire protection measures in building design and construction. As the city rebuilds, it is expected that city planning, building design and construction codes will undergo more revisions aimed at bolstering fire resilience in future developments.
Our hope is that the future brings the prioritization of higher-rated, fire-resistant materials in construction across all of California (and the west). These materials will not only meet stricter fire-resistance ratings but also help ensure that structures are better equipped to withstand extreme conditions. In addition, defensible space techniques, such as creating buffer zones and firebreaks, will likely influence design at both small and large scales, helping to reduce the risk of fire spread and enhance overall safety.
Moreover, the integration of new technologies will play a crucial role in enhancing the city’s fire protection efforts. Smart systems that detect and respond to fire risks in real-time, such as early warning systems, automated firefighting drones, and advanced fire suppression technologies, could become a key part of urban infrastructure. This technology, combined with sustainable design practices, could ensure that buildings not only survive future fires but also minimize their environmental impact and carbon footprint.
As cities like Los Angeles rebuild and adapt, the integration of fire-resistant materials, defensible space techniques, and cutting-edge technologies will be key to ensuring that future structures are better equipped to withstand the challenges posed by increasingly frequent and severe wildfires. Ultimately, by embracing these changes, we can create safer, more sustainable urban environments that are not only more resilient in the face of fire but also better prepared for the unpredictable future of climate change.
Written by Josebet Luna and Andrew Goodwin
References
Image (in the order they appear): https://ar.inspiredpencil.com/pictures-2023/great-chicago-fire-pictures
Image: https://www.newsweek.com/california-fire-map-update-kenneth-palisades-eaton-fires-ravage-la-2012900
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