Imagine losing everything three days after you achieved the American dream of homeownership. Danielle Katvan, Raimy Rosenduft and their newly-purchased home in Altadena were devastated by an electrical fire. Danielle recalls, “I was shooting a commercial on set when Raimy called me, crying, to tell me the house was burning.” “I was in utter disbelief.”
From the ashes of tragedy, an unexpected opportunity arose. The couple, having already spent the majority of their savings for the down payment, now had a blank slate to create their dream house. “We joke that it was a painful shortcut to our home,” says Raimy.
Barrett Cooke was able to understand their vision of a cozy retreat inspired by Big Sur. The 1,400-square foot home, which sits on a 9,000 square foot lot, features vaulted, open ceilings and a strong connection with the outdoors. The attached garage was transformed into an ADU to expand their living space and accommodate their growing family.
The couple spent more on high-traffic and high-touch elements such as plumbing fixtures, kitchen counters, and doorknobs while reducing costs elsewhere. Modern Twig walnut doors were added to IKEA kitchen cabinet boxes, combining prefabrication with custom components.
The result is an inviting, warm atmosphere that combines coastal cabin and Japandi influence. The couple’s personality is reflected in the furnishings and textiles, while the overall design is clean. The living room features an Eames Lounge chair, a gift that marked their engagement.
Danielle and Raimy still consider their newly rebuilt home as a gift, despite the unexpected journey. “Now that we are on the other end of it, and have this comfortable home that we can call our own, it feels so wonderful,” says Danielle.
The story of their story is not just about rebuilding a home, but about turning a catastrophe into a chance to build a dream house filled with love and possibilities.
