Business of Home’s recent article highlighting design industry achievements from 2025 featured our principal, Bill Baldwin, among 15 leading industry designers and design/build firms who shared their proudest achievement and lamentable regret of 2025.
Community First: Responding to the Eaton Fire
When asked about our biggest 2025 achievement, Bill Baldwin reflected on what may be the most meaningful work our design/build firm has undertaken:
“Our firm’s most significant achievement and largest regret may well be two sides of the same coin: We have offices in Claremont and Pasadena and became immediately involved in the aftermath of the Eaton Fire, [including] its tragic impact on the city of Altadena, a community we routinely work in (and my birthplace).”
The devastating Eaton Fire didn’t just impact structures. It erased irreplaceable memories and disrupted the fabric of our community. For families, their homes served as personal museums filled with generations of treasured possessions and stories.
Design/Build Expertise Meets Compassionate Rebuilding
Our team quickly mobilized to help homeowners navigate the complex journey of rebuilding. This work requires more than architectural and construction expertise. It demands empathy, creativity, and a deep understanding that healing is an integral part of the rebuilding process.
Bill continued: “I am very proud of the research, creativity, ingenuity and empathy our team has brought to the table to help the many families who have come to our door for help.”
Our Commitment to Altadena and Beyond
As a design/build firm with deep roots in the Pasadena and Claremont communities, we especially understand the importance of thoughtful, comprehensive residential design and construction. The fire recovery work has not only reinforced our commitment to creating homes that aren’t just structures, but also sanctuaries that reflect the lives and legacies of the families who inhabit them.
HartmanBaldwin continues to assist as many of those affected as it can, however, resources, capacity, and time constraints limit our reach. As Bill shared with Business of Home: “If we had a magic wand, we would have a hand in helping every family in the community find their way back home.”
We invite you to read the complete Business of Home article here. Learn more about how design firms across the country approached their most significant work in 2025.
Ready to Start Your 2026 design/build Project?
As we look ahead to 2026, we’re excited to continue creating beautiful, meaningful spaces. Whether it’s helping families rebuild, designing dream homes, or bringing architectural visions to life.
