The Entrepreneurs Eureka: how the private sector is helping rebuild LA after the January 2025 wildfires
Jul 4, 2025
Stephen Summers, co-founder of Crest Real Estate, navigates LA's complex construction world with his brother Jason. They discuss the impact of the January 2025 wildfires and how private initiatives are stepping in to aid recovery. The Case Study 2.0 initiative aims to provide affordable architectural designs while preserving the city’s historical charm. Innovative housing solutions are being developed, showcasing collaboration among architects and contractors. The conversation highlights the community’s resilience and determination to rebuild amid the devastation.
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Summers Brothers Drive Recovery
- Stephen and Jason Summers run Crest Real Estate, specializing in permit expediting in LA.
- They leverage their expertise and industry connections to aid wildfire recovery with architectural innovation.
Use Replicable Designs for Efficiency
- Use replicable architectural designs to rebuild efficiently and cost-effectively.
- Partner architects with preferred contractors to achieve economies of scale and maintain quality.
Balancing Replicability and Character
- Replicated homes, when thoughtfully designed and spaced, preserve community character.
- A balance between custom and repeatable designs enables rapid rebuilding without losing aesthetic integrity.