Built by William Randolph Hearst in 1929, the California Parks Service also confirmed that Topanga Ranch Motel has been destroyed in the Palisades fire. The bungalow cabins, which represented California’s coastal charm, were scheduled to be renovated. There were more than 30 structural losses across Topanga State Park and Will Rogers Historic State Park, according to the park service. “We are deeply grateful to our parks staff and all partner agencies for their swift actions. Our top priority remains the safety of the public, our employees, and the responders bravely battling the fires,” Quintero said.
Villa Aurora and the Thomas Mann House
In a statement released early Thursday morning, representatives for Villa Aurora, a historic artists’ residence offering fellowships for creators in various disciplines, was partially harmed, though the extent of the damage was still being assessed. “There are first indications that parts of Villa Aurora were able to withstand the destructive fires. However, the building continues to be in the danger zone,” the statement reads. Another historic home on the property, the Thomas Mann House, was undamaged as of Thursday morning. “This, too, is a momentary snapshot, as the situation can change any time: The building continues to be in the danger and evacuation zone,” a representative warned.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
Surrounded by 120 acres of botanical gardens, the Huntington is a cultural and research center in Pasadena. According to a statement on Instagram, the property has lost a few trees due to high winds, but is otherwise undamaged. “While we are currently outside the range of active fires, our buildings are equipped with features designed to enhance the safety of our art and library collections. Our HVAC systems continue to maintain safe collection storage environments, including the filtering of outside air,” the post shared.
Keeler House
Anne Keeler confirmed to The New York Times that her Ray Kappe–designed residence was lost in the fires. “It’s gone,” she said. Kappe cofounded the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc) and was known for his progressive approach to architecture. The Keeler home was one of his seminal works.
Gamble House
Recognized as one of the finest examples of Arts and Crafts design, the Gamble House was the residence of David and Mary Gamble of the Procter and Gamble Company and designed by Charles and Henry Greene. A National Historic Landmark, the home was unharmed as of late Wednesday night. “The Gamble House is safe for now!! Out of an abundance of caution, we will be closed through Sunday, January 12. Our hearts go out to those who have lost so much in these devastating fires. Please stay safe,” reads an update on the home’s official Instagram account.
The Bunny Museum
A quirky and whimsical Altadena institution, the Bunny Museum, which celebrated all things rabbit, was lost in the Eaton fire, according to the LA Times. “We lost our wedding albums, my wedding dress, and 46,000 bunny objects,” Candace Frazee, who owned the museum with her husband, Steve Lubanski, wrote to the publication in an email. In a statement on X, the owners vowed to rebuild the beloved attraction, adding “tomorrow will be hoppier with so many good wishes.”
