People + Places | Virtual Program
ON THE MOVE: Historic House Relocation Project

Thursday, July 31, 2025
12-1:00 p.m.
FREE, Registration Required.

In the aftermath of the Eaton Fire, a new strategy is gaining traction: relocating older and historic homes to Altadena. As part of recovery efforts, moving these homes into the community is emerging as an innovative option—one that both preserves architectural heritage that might otherwise be lost and helps sustain local housing availability.

By relocating at-risk homes rather than demolishing them, we not only save important historic structures but also provide livable housing for residents eager to return to Altadena. This approach is also environmentally sustainable, as it makes practical sense to reuse and repurpose existing homes rather than build anew.

The practice of moving entire buildings isn’t new to Los Angeles. In fact, throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was common for homeowners to physically relocate houses as the city expanded, rather than tear them down.

Omgivning Architecture is leading this renewed effort—coordinating resources and bringing together Altadena residents to make these relocations possible. The first two homes slated for the move to Altadena originate from the Hollywood and Los Feliz neighborhoods.

Join the conversation with architects, community advocates, and preservationists who are leading efforts to move these houses. Learn about how they hope to expand efforts to allow more homes to be saved and relocated to Altadena. We will also learn more about the history of house moving in Los Angeles, especially about George Kress and the Kress House Moving Company.

READ MORE:

“To treat Altadena burn scar, this couple grafts a house,” KCRW, July 19, 2025

“The Man Who Reshaped a City,” Downtown Los Angeles, April 18, 2005