Aaron Leshtz and Harper Halprin discuss how they are responding to the California wildfires
1 – What are the immediate effects the fires have had on you and your practice?
A silver lining of these devastating fires has been the way they have strengthened our personal and professional communities. While we have always had deep roots in Los Angeles, this crisis has reinforced the importance of collaboration and mutual support. We are fortunate to be part of a network of professionals across the city and state, allowing us to share knowledge, resources, and strategies as we navigate the rebuilding process together.
2 – Will the fires and the destruction they caused change the way you approach projects or the way you design?
There is a growing emphasis – both among architects and clients – on fire-resistant materials and sustainable design. As an LA based firm, we have generally prioritized sustainably sourced materials suited to coastal environments. However, it’s encouraging to see fire resilience becoming a more widespread priority. This shift will help ensure that future structures are not only environmentally conscious but also better equipped to withstand natural disasters.
3 – How do you see rebuilding happening in the areas that were affected?
Our discussions with affected residents and fellow architects have revealed a shared commitment to preserving the architectural and cultural identity of these communities. Rather than opting for uniform, mass-produced rebuilds, there is a concerted effort to restore neighborhoods in a way that respects and honors their original character. The goal is not just to rebuild but to thoughtfully reinstate spaces that reflect the history and spirit of the people who call them home.
4 – What is your longer-term vision for how the LA region ought to move forward?
Los Angeles has historically reinvented itself and evolved throughout the entirety of its existence and we have no doubt that it will do so once again following this tragedy. Many affected people will look to rebuild quickly, and in-kind, to maintain some semblance of the life they lost. It is our responsibility to help them in that endeavor.
At the same time, this is an opportunity for entire neighborhoods to be a model of how we as a city might reimagine the way things can be done. Whether through simple implementation of building technologies, or a broader reimagining of the neighborhood fabric, it is my hope that we, as a profession, do not lose the forest for the trees, and take a step back to innovate.
www.aaha.studio
AAHA Studio is a full-service, family-run architecture and interior design studio founded by husband-and-wife duo Harper Halprin and Aaron Leshtz. Together, they have assembled a powerhouse team of architects and interior designers, all dedicated to crafting transformative spaces that resonate with both the essence of their clients’ vision and California’s rich architectural identity.
Natives of Southern California, Harper and Aaron made their way to New York after graduating from the University of Southern California with their Architectural degrees. While there, Under the mentorship of world-class designers, they each were integral to domestic and international retail roll-outs from Tom Ford to Tiffany & Co. as well as various luxury residential developments, hospitality spaces and commercial interiors. Both Harper and Aaron have had key roles in managing various project typologies and have been integral to the design, documentation and construction for commercial spaces and high-end residences across the country.