I am an architect, but not yours.
I’m your advocate through the fire — focused on your goals, not the chaos.
Who am I?
I’m Robyne — an award-winning architect and fire survivor. After fulfilling a longtime dream of living in Malibu, I lost my home in the Palisades fire. I know firsthand how disorienting and emotional the rebuild journey can be. That experience changed everything — and led me to support other families through it, not as their architect, but as a trusted guide and advocate.
I designed part of the Olympic Village for the 2010 Winter Games, and my work has been featured at the Museum of Modern Art in New York and Santiago, Chile. In Rome, it was honored as the main summer exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art and Architecture, where it filled the piazza, the entire first floor, and half of the second floor — on display for four months.
Throughout my career, I’ve specialized in using materials in unexpected, visionary ways — drawing from aerospace, industrial design, and emerging technologies to create spaces that inspire and endure. I’m not just an architect. I’m a systems thinker and a fierce advocate. If there’s a way to make your vision happen — I’ll find it. Even if we have to go through the chimney, the only thing still standing.
The Rebuild Roadmap Session
This session offers a calm, focused space to reflect on where you’ve been, what you’ve already done, and what’s ahead. Through thoughtful questions and deep listening, I’ll help you gain clarity — not just on your next steps, but on what’s truly needed, and what’s possible.
We’ll explore:
Where you are in the recovery and rebuild timeline
What decisions are coming up next — and how to navigate them
What kind of support, team, and timeline will best serve your goals
What materials or approaches might align with your vision, values, and budget
Whether ongoing support would make your journey smoother
This session is the foundation. From there, we’ll decide together if continued support feels aligned — and if so, how we might tailor it to meet your needs.
Ongoing Support Options
After our initial session, I offer flexible levels of ongoing support — from occasional strategic guidance to full-scale stewardship throughout your rebuild. These aren’t rigid packages — they’re frameworks we can tailor to meet your needs.
Foundational Support — On-call guidance when you need it
Strategic calls during key decision moments
Personalized referrals and insights
Best for those navigating independently who want expert backup
Core Guidance — Consistent support and project coordination
Weekly calls or check-ins
Coordination between architect, builder, engineer, and more
Timeline strategy and materiality guidance
Ideal for families who want a steady hand in the process
Full Stewardship — A thought partner and advocate through every phase
Active involvement from design through move-in
Participation in key meetings
Unlimited guidance and coordination
Site visits and high-touch support (as needed)
Reserved for a small number of deeply supported clients
We’ll talk about what feels right for you after our initial session — and build from there.
Why Work Together?
Rebuilding after a fire isn’t just about replacing what was lost — it’s about redefining what’s possible. It’s emotional, complex, and often overwhelming. Most people don’t know where to begin, or they’re already in it and feeling unsteady.
That’s where I come in.
I’m not here to sell you a system or hand you a checklist. I’m here to walk with you — to ask the right questions, see what others don’t, and find innovative, often unexpected ways to get you what you need. I bring a rare mix of high-level design experience, deep listening, and relentless creativity to every project. If there’s a way forward, we’ll find it together.
This is more than project management. It’s presence. Advocacy. And alignment.
Let’s talk and see if it’s a fit.
FAQ
Are you my architect?
No — I’m not stepping into the role of architect, contractor, or engineer. I’m here as your trusted guide, creative advocate, and strategic thought partner. I support you in aligning your team, making decisions with confidence, and exploring innovative pathways — but I don’t take on the formal design role.
What if I’ve already hired an architect or contractor?
Perfect. Most of my clients come to me once the process is already in motion. I help ensure your team is aligned, your voice is heard, and the experience feels manageable and intentional. You don’t need to start over — you just need someone in your corner who can see the full picture and help you move forward with clarity.
How long do people usually work with you?
It depends. Some clients just want a single session to get grounded and clear. Others work with me through the entire rebuild process — from early decisions all the way through to move-in. I offer flexible support to match your needs and goals.
Do you only work with clients in Malibu and the Palisades?
This is where my work is most naturally rooted — I live here, and I’ve personally been through the fires. I understand the emotional weight and complexity of rebuilding in this unique landscape. While I don’t claim to be a permitting expert, I know how to listen — to departments, to community leaders, and to the unspoken obstacles. I will not let things fall through the cracks. I follow every thread, knock on every door, and help find the way through. That said, I’m also open to working with aligned clients outside the area if the project speaks to both of us.
Credibility & Press
Rooted in Design. Devoted to People.
While this chapter of my work is devoted to guiding families through the fire recovery and rebuild process, my foundation is in global design innovation. From the Olympic Village to museum exhibitions in Rome, my work has always been about one thing: helping people live better through beauty, resilience, and intention.
