A new perceived threat followed World War II and the Cold War. A fear of getting hit by the nuclear “big one” became a way of life for Americans and other countries all over the world. School drills telling kids to hide under desks didn’t quell the nerves of some families. With paranoia lurking everywhere, underground shelters began to pop up across the globe.
Author and photographer Richard Ross sought these shelters out during his travels and documented them for his project, “Waiting for the End of the World.” These impressive structures transformed over the years into tourist attractions, comfortable living spaces, and even a night club. They look a lot better than you’d expect from places where people would wait out the end of the world..
Charlie Hull’s Shelter in Emigrant, Montana
Shelter in Livermore, California
Underground City in Beijing, China
“The Trendy Griboyedov Club” in St. Petersburg, Russia
Public Shelter in Zurich, Switzerland
Shelter in San Pete County, Utah
The Seyfriend’s Shelter in Salt Lake City, Utah
Abbey Data Storage in Bellsize Park, London, England
Kelvedon Hatch in Essex, England
Jiaozhuanghu Village in Beijing, China
(via Messy Nessy Chic.)
These took the idea of “battening down the hatches” and added more style than I thought possible. You can find more information about the project on Ross’ website, and also purchase a copy of his book featuring even more incredible shelters.
