Resilience, Community, and Design
This month has been a difficult time for us, Angelenos. The devastating fires have displaced thousands, and nearly all of us know someone personally affected. Yet, in the face of such loss, our community has shown immense strength—coming together to support one another in ways that are both humbling and inspiring. I am deeply grateful to the firefighters, both local and from around the world, who have risked their lives to protect our city. If you’d like to support those impacted, I’ve linked a few organizations below.
Being part of the Pasadena Showcase House carries even more significant meaning this year. Some of my fellow designers, as well as members of the showcase team, have lost their homes. Their resilience and commitment to creating beauty, even in the face of such personal hardship, reinforce how design is more than just aesthetics—it is about creating spaces that offer comfort, stability, and a sense of renewal.
I am honored to have been chosen once again to design a space for the Pasadena Showcase House. This year, I selected the back staircase, a transitional space that bridges different levels of the home. This choice feels symbolic—a way to create beauty in an area that connects movement and stillness.
For this design, I wanted to celebrate artistry and craftsmanship by featuring local talent. I’m thrilled to incorporate a hand-painted mural by Arpy L’artist, as well as photography from Tommy Lei and a painting from Kari Kroll. The design is a fusion of bold and floral elements, striking a balance between sturdy and softness. The deep, rich cabinetry tones in the upstairs hallway contrast with delicate pink dahlias painted on the lower landing. By blending masculine and feminine elements, the space becomes both grounded and inviting—a reflection of harmony in design.
Below is a preview of my design concept, illustrating the transformation of the back staircase:
I can’t wait to share the progress and the final reveal with you. More than ever, this project feels like a reflection of our city’s resilience, creativity, and unwavering spirit.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
With gratitude,
Rebecca J Hansen
Fire Relief Organizations:
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