Power + Place

Power+Place: Rebuilding Altadena Together

In the first episode of 'Power + Place,' host and licensed architect Bryan C. Lee Jr. NOMA FAIA delves into how architecture and the built environment can perpetuate injustices and the powerful role it plays in shaping culture and history. The episode focuses on the Altadena Rebuild Coalition and its efforts to help the community recover after the devastating Eaton fires of early 2025. Featuring personal stories from architects Carla Flagg, Steve Lewis, Charles Bryant, and organizer Matthew Trotter, the podcast explores themes of family, memory, and the urgency to preserve Altadena's black cultural heritage amidst a challenging rebuild. The episode underscores the importance of collective empathy, community support, and strategic action in restoring not just homes but the essence of a historically rich community.