written by. OPRIME Designer
Sergey Makhno Architects was inspired by the global coronavirus crisis to create "Underground House Plan B". This design reinterprets the traditional concept of a bunker into a stylish and comfortable space for long-term underground living, designed to address future global crises.
Situated in a forest in Ukraine, this architectural structure comprises two intersecting concrete volumes. One is an inverted cone with a helipad, while the other is a rectangular structure with a curved entrance. Below the surface structures, at 15 meters underground, there's a self-sufficient living space planned to accommodate two to three families. This space includes a spacious lounge with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and a large cushioned sofa, serving also as a home cinema, ensuring there's no need to venture out even in disaster situations.
Strategic design elements like a cylindrical lightwell simulate natural sunlight, enhancing the underground ambiance. A professional-grade kitchen and a garden room for growing food emphasize the bunker's self-sufficiency. Additional facilities include a medical room, a pet walking area, and a disinfection pod, catering to various needs during emergencies.
The fitness area features a meditation room and a pool with green-hued lights that mimic natural environments, providing a relaxing atmosphere far from typical sports facilities. Aptly designed for quick escapes, almost every room has access to an "evacuation ring," facilitating rapid egress if necessary.
This design prioritizes safety and functionality in crisis situations and exemplifies how architecture can play a role in preparing for and responding to modern world crises.