This home is currently under construction

The Normandy Cottage project reflects our ongoing commitment to stand alongside homeowners in Pacific Palisades who have experienced the profound loss of their homes to devastating fires. At Bureau Namas, we are continually seeking meaningful ways to support families in not only rebuilding their residences, but also in thoughtfully reimagining them—restoring more than structures, but the sense of comfort, identity, and belonging these cherished homes embody.

This project was especially close to our hearts. Honoring the history of the original house, our design approach was guided by a desire to create a home that would feel both familiar and forward-looking—a space where memories could be preserved while new ones take root.

Drawing inspiration from the enduring architectural vernacular of Northern France, the design channels the charm and rustic elegance of the Normandy countryside, interpreted through a Californian lens. Hallmark elements such as steeply pitched roofs, arched openings, and half-timber detailing pay homage to the region’s timeless cottages, while subtle contemporary updates infuse the home with a fresh sense of lightness and openness.

The carefully chosen French blue accents on the shutters, trim, and architectural details imbue the home with a sense of tranquility, optimism, and serenity—tones that were deeply intentional. This delicate shade evokes the open skies and calm seas, offering a palette that feels both peaceful and hopeful, a fitting metaphor for a home rebuilt from loss.

Throughout the project, a sense of craftsmanship, authenticity, and enduring materiality guided every decision. From the hand-troweled plaster walls to the reclaimed brick chimney, every element was selected to convey permanence, warmth, and resilience—qualities that echo the spirit of the families and community of Pacific Palisades.

At Bureau Namas, we believe that rebuilding is more than a process of reconstruction—it is an opportunity to create homes that carry forward the narratives of the past while embracing a brighter future. This Normandy-inspired cottage stands as a testament to that belief, blending historical architectural character with thoughtful, timeless design that will serve its owners for generations to come.