Architect designs home for victims of disaster

on Friday,January 07,2011 21:01

Architects may receive a variety of different projects throughout their careers, but taking the opportunity to design a structure for the needy may become one of the most memorable, fulfilling opportunities.

Families in San Bruno, California, are still recovering from a gas line explosion that damaged many homes in the region. Recently, architect Andre Rothblatt decided to lend a helping hand by creating a design for one family who lost everything in the fire.

"There is a sense of anticipation about what the new neighborhood will look like," said Andre Rothblatt, who was hired by a homeowner to help with recovery efforts. "Many of the affected residents are planning major improvements to their homes as they rebuild them."

The five bedroom, four bath, two-story home will replace the former home that stood on the property. Previously, the owners only had three bedrooms, two bathrooms and one story. Rothblatt's work may inspire others to help victims of disaster by using design skills of their own.

Employment of architects is expected to increase by 16 percent over the next seven years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.