From Altadena, Justina Blakeney Reflects on Life, Loss, and Rebuilding Her Home

Architectural Digest

by Leonora Epstein

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Justina Blakeney, the renowned interior designer based in Altadena, shares her harrowing experience of losing and rebuilding her home after a devastating fire on January 7, 2025. The article recounts how the evening began with a romantic ambiance, only to turn tragic when flames engulfed the neighborhood. Despite narrowly escaping with her family and cherished belongings, Blakeney reflects on the emotional toll of the event. Her story highlights themes of resilience, gratitude, and the challenges of rebuilding—a journey marked by bureaucratic hurdles, insurance struggles, and the weight of loss amidst others’ greater suffering. Blakeney’s home, a 1930s Spanish-style property featured in *Architectural Digest*, was nearly destroyed but ultimately saved. The narrative details her rapid decision-making during evacuation, including curating keepsakes like her wedding dress and family heirlooms. Her husband chose to stay behind to protect the house, evoking a moment of intense prayer for his safety. Reuniting with him, they found solace in the fact that their home remained standing, though the surrounding landscape was charred. The process of recovery was far from over. Blakeney describes the emotional and logistical challenges of rebuilding, including navigating insurance claims and assessing whether their home could ever feel the same. She emphasizes the duality of gratitude for their survival while acknowledging the profound loss others faced. This experience has left her with a renewed perspective on what truly matters—prioritizing loved ones over possessions. For readers interested in design, Blakeney’s story offers insight into the emotional and practical aspects of restoring a home. Her approach to rebuilding reflects a blend of creativity and intentionality, as she seeks to honor the house’s historical charm while adapting it to modern needs. The narrative underscores the importance of preserving memories through design, even amidst chaos.

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Originally published on Architectural Digest on 2/20/2026