Nine abandoned nuclear bunkers that have been converted into luxury spaces
Twentieth century defensive fortifications – originally built to protect people from bombs and nuclear attack – have been given a makeover and cast in a range of exotic new roles
Decades after World War II and the Cold War, the world is agonising over nuclear threats from North Korea.
The country recently tested its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile to date, which leader Kim Jong-un claims can reach the United States. North Korea’s foreign ministry also said on Wednesday that war on the Korean peninsula is “inevitable”.
These warnings may be one reason why some people – from Tokyo to Australia to the US – are showing an interest in purchasing bunkers designed to preserve life in the event of a nuclear explosion.
Many 20th century bunkers have, however, been repurposed since nuclear threats have waned in recent decades. Architects have turned old bunkers into all sorts of creative spaces, including farms, nightclubs, and apartments.
Take a look at these transformations below.
Built in the early 1940s, this above-ground bunker in Siegen, Germany had a long and narrow layout. It was meant to protect civilians in the event of air raids, according to German broadcaster Deutsche Welle.
Architects from local firm Modulbuero transformed it into a luxury apartment complex in 2016. The minimalist units feature all the fittings of modern homes: bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, huge windows, storage, and balconies with sliding glass doors.
Now called Medienbunker, this former shelter was a WWII anti-aircraft tower in Hamburg, Germany.