Given all the lost homes in the Valley fire, it seems rebuilding would be a prime opportunity to use non-wood structures as replacements. 

Homes from shipping containers could be an economical way to do this. Each container could be fitted with a part of the new home before being put in place. 

For those who like tiny homes, one container may be enough. Most people would probably like more space so two to three containers would make sense. 

With cuts in the sides for windows, doors and other pass-throughs, they can be turned into very nice, comfortable homes with anywhere from about 700 to 950 square feet or more!

These homes can include:

- passive solar aspects;

- good insulation;

- solar panels;

- rainwater catchment;

- landscape that aids in heating and cooling while using native plants;

- greywater systems,

An added benefit could be having the business that retrofits these containers right in Middletown, giving employment opportunity to those who have lost jobs.

DK Jacobsen lives in Petaluma, Calif.