FAQ's
ABOUT
BUILDING BLOCKS
What is Building Blocks?
A rebuild program for homeowners that brings design, engineering, permitting, and construction into one coordinated process. You choose from traditionally inspired home plans with up-front, transparent pricing. One team guides you from your first question to the day you move home.
Who is behind Building Blocks?
Building Blocks comes from the Altadena Collective, led by Tim Vordtriede, Chris Corbett, and Chris Driscoll, in partnership with Comstock Homes, an experienced local production builder. Tim's family lost their home in the Eaton Fire, which led him to start Building Blocks after running into the same cost uncertainty, endless decisions, and trust questions so many of our neighbors are facing now.
Are you a developer?
No. We help Altadena homeowners property owners rebuild homes on their own lots.
Is this a county or government program?
No. Building Blocks is an independent program.
COST AND INSURANCE
Why does it cost less than a custom build?
Comstock Homes is a production builder, building several hundred homes per year, with long-standing relationships with subcontractors and suppliers. Those relationships create significant efficiencies in labor and materials cost, and that's what drives the savings.
How much does it cost?
Every plan has its price posted right on this site, so you can see real numbers before you ever talk to us. Browse by style or by square footage. That posted price covers the whole picture: design and engineering, construction, mid-tier finishes, hardscape and landscaping, and a site work allowance with finish grading. What moves the final number is your finish selections and anything your particular lot needs, like additional grading.
Are you a developer?
You're not alone. Many families rebuilding after the fires are in the same position. In your consultation, we'll look at your lot and your budget and show you which homes fit. We also have access to gap financing options and specialists who can help you maximize your insurance coverage.
Is the consultation really free?
Yes. There's no obligation to continue and no deposit required to receive initial feedback about the program and your property.
THE
PROCESS
How does it work?
-
Browse plans and pricing on our website, by style or square footage.
-
Reach out by phone, email, or our contact form, or come to an open house.
-
Free consultation. We help you understand your options, see which homes work for your lot and budget, and figure out the best path forward.
-
One team handles the rest: design, engineering, permitting, and construction.
-
You move home.
How long will it take?
The designs are complete, so the design and permitting stage typically takes about 3 to 4 months, and construction about 8 to 10 months.
Do I have to handle permits myself?
No. Permitting is part of the program, along with design, engineering, and construction.
How many decisions will I have to make?
Far fewer than in a custom build. You choose a plan, and our team guides you through a short, clear set of choices: finish options you can select from or propose yourself, and upgrades such as a fireplace or powder room.
THE
HOMES
What do the homes look like?
Every design is inspired by the architectural character of Southern California. Each plan comes in three to four exterior styles: Modern, Bungalow, Spanish, and Cottage. Browse them all on our Home Designs pages.
Are the homes all-electric, or do they include gas?
These homes are all-electric. That allows homeowners to qualify for two current grant programs that help offset rebuild costs: Rise Homes and the California Electric Homes Program. It also helps future-proof the long-term sustainability and resilience of your home.
Are the homes fire resistant?
Our homes are built to exceed today's fire and building standards. Compliance with Chapter 7A and WUI code standards is incorporated into every plan, and each home will be eligible for Wildfire Prepared Base (Essential) certification. That includes double-tempered windows, fire-resistant attic vents, Class A roofing, and mesh covers over gutters.
Can I change a plan?
These are pre-designed homes, not pre-approved, so minor changes can be considered, such as square footage adjustments for a like-for-like designation.
Will a plan fit my lot?
That's exactly what the free consultation is for. You can also bring your address to one of our open houses, and the team will do a test fit on your lot while you're there.
Can I build a home larger than my previous?
Yes. You can build larger than your pre-existing home, up to a 200-square-foot increase or 10 percent, whichever is larger. Depending on your rebuild situation and funding strategy, you may be able to go larger still, since these homes are designed to accommodate the local jurisdiction's design requirements.
WHERE TO
BEGIN
Where do I begin?
Start by browsing the plans and pricing on this site. When you're ready to talk, call (626) 217-0371, email info@buildingblocksaltadena.com, or send us your rebuild address through the contact form. And if you'd rather meet in person first, come to our next open house.
When is the next open house?
Thursday, October 22, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Altadena Collective offices, 125 N. Marengo Ave., Pasadena. Meet the architects, designers, and build team, and bring your address for a test fit on your lot. Food and drinks provided. Families are welcome.
Where are you located?
Our office is at 125 N. Marengo Ave., Pasadena, CA 91101.
Do you work outside of Altadena?
Yes, we can provide this rebuild program beyond Altadena. It can work in Pasadena, Sierra Madre, Pacific Palisades, and other areas rebuilding. There are some constraints, but we are happy to take a look at your lot and let you know if it can work.
GENERAL CONTRACTOR
Comstock Crosser & Associates Development Company, Inc., a California Corporation
3760 Kilroy Airport Way, Suite 130, Long Beach, CA 90806
310.546.5781
CSLB License No. 717986