A Fresh Start After the Napa Fires: Rebuilding Home with Heart

In October 2017, Napa County experienced one of the most devastating wildfires in its history. Entire neighborhoods were reduced to ash—including the home of a family who would soon become our clients.

When they came to us, they weren’t just looking to rebuild a house—they were looking to rebuild a life. We were honored to walk with them through this process, from the first sketches to the final design selections. Together, we created a brand new home that reflects their lifestyle, honors their story, and turns a heartbreaking loss into a fresh start.

At JLM Designs, we handled the full scope of design services—interior and exterior. This included:

Coordinating plans and documentation for permitting and construction

Drafting a brand-new floor plan tailored to the family’s needs

Designing the exterior elevations to complement the surrounding landscape

Selecting interior finishes that brought warmth, comfort, and beauty back into their daily life

A Thoughtful Floor Plan with Purpose

The home is anchored by two primary suites on one side—ideal for multi-generational living or long-term guests—while a guest suite was placed at the opposite end for added privacy. This split-bedroom layout allows everyone to enjoy their own retreat without feeling disconnected.

At the heart of the home sits the open-concept living room, kitchen, and dining space—a warm and welcoming central hub that brings everyone together. From morning coffee to late-night chats, this space was designed to feel cozy yet expansive.

To further extend the living area, we designed a covered front porch and a spacious back patio—both perfect for casual outdoor dining and enjoying Napa’s beautiful weather year-round. These transitional spaces blur the line between indoor and outdoor living, giving the homeowners even more room to gather, relax, and enjoy their surroundings.