A US businessman, David Steiner, shared why he believes his $9 million Malibu villa survived the devastating wildfires that destroyed his neighborhood in Los Angeles. While over 20,000 acres and more than 5,000 homes and businesses were destroyed, Steiner’s villa remained intact despite the towering flames around it. Strong winds and a lack of rain exacerbated the fires, with authorities suspecting arson in some cases, including the Kenneth fire near Calabasas. Celebrities like Paris Hilton and Eugene Levy were among those who lost their homes, but Steiner was shocked to learn that his three-story house withstood the inferno. Built with an “ultra-sturdy construction,” fireproof materials, and deep pilings for stability, the house’s earthquake-resistant design also made it resilient against the flames.
Steiner, who described the scene of his home standing tall amid rubble as a “phoenix rising from the ashes,” expressed gratitude for his villa’s survival but acknowledged the broader tragedy. While his property wasn’t his family’s permanent home, he sympathized with those who lost their homes and cherished memories. “I lost a property, but others lost their homes,” he said. Despite having insurance, he noted that coverage for wildfire damages would be limited and suspected some smoke damage to his estate. Steiner’s story highlights both the resilience of well-constructed homes and the human cost of the wildfires.