In this episode, I share an encouraging example of how smarter design may help communities adapt to the growing threat of wildfires. Near Sacramento, a major homebuilder is developing a neighborhood specifically engineered to resist wildfire damage.

The project championed by KB Home relies on standards developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), a research nonprofit funded by the insurance industry.  The standards were developed from insights gained from ember science, wider spacing between structures, and durable building materials designed to reduce ignition risk. 

Together, these strategies aim to protect homes—and potentially restore insurance availability in high-risk wildfire regions. It’s a reminder that thoughtful design and engineering can play a critical role in helping communities live more safely in fire-prone landscapes.