Cover's Groundbreaking Project in Pacific Palisades
In an inspiring showcase of resilience and innovation, Cover, a Los Angeles-based design-build firm, is nearing the completion of its first home rebuild in Pacific Palisades following devastating fires. This project stands as a testament to the power of modern building techniques, especially in the wake of natural disasters.
The home is being built for Sue Labella, a longtime resident of the area, who lost her previous house in the fires that occurred in January 2025. A retired professional and community member for over three decades, Sue was searching for a stress-free rebuilding experience. Traditional reconstruction often involves a cumbersome process where homeowners juggle between architects, contractors, and permits. However, Cover offers a seamless solution through its integrated team that handles everything in-house. From the initial design to final construction, Cover ensures the journey is straightforward, minimizing the frustrations commonly associated with home rebuilding.
A Comprehensive Approach to Rebuilding
Permits for Sue's new home were submitted in May 2025, demonstrating Cover's commitment to efficient and prompt service. With the final touches of the build expected by early November 2025, this project emphasizes not only the innovative design but also the speed of recovery efforts in the wake of disaster.
Speaking about the importance of this integrated approach, Alexis Rivas, CEO of Cover, stated, "Rebuilding after a fire can feel overwhelming, especially for people who just want their lives back. Our one-stop service with designers, engineers, and builders under one roof simplifies the process, offering clients peace of mind."
The residence itself is impressive, encompassing a spacious 2,300-square-foot main home along with an 800-square-foot detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU). Both structures are crafted entirely from non-combustible steel panels produced at Cover's Los Angeles factory. The assembly of these panels on-site functions similarly to a kit, ensuring superior quality and resilience while surpassing California's strict fire and energy standards.
A Vision Realized
Since its inception in 2018, Cover has been committed to demonstrating that homes constructed in a factory can achieve remarkable architectural standards. Rivas proudly adds, "This home exemplifies our goal of proving that factory-built homes can provide extraordinary architecture without compromise. This project is a stunning case in point."
Homeowners in similar situations, or those merely interested in learning more about modern rebuilding techniques, can find valuable information and resources at
www.buildcover.com. Cover’s model serves not only as an innovative solution for rebuilding but also as an empowering story for communities affected by disasters, illustrating the strength of modern design and engineering in sensitive contexts.
The journey of Sue Labella towards reclaiming her home and life continues, but it is clear that with the help of Cover, her story is one of hope and resilience, setting a precedent for future rebuilding efforts in the region.