Underneath an unassuming private residence in Las Vegas lies one of the most eccentric and iconic pieces of architecture: a doomsday bunker that was listed for sale at a staggering $18 million in 2020. Despite the passing years, this underground shelter remains a subject of fascination, thanks in part to photographer Alastair Philip Wiper, who takes us on a visual tour of the 1,400 sqm nuclear fallout shelter and its unique features.
Designed in 1978 by millionaire Jerry Henderson, the bunker is a testament to the era’s paranoia and penchant for quirky design. Henderson, a pioneer in underground living, crafted the residence to accommodate a community during a nuclear fallout. The shelter is equipped with artificial trees, faux rocks, lighting that simulates different times of day, and lifelike sceneries painted on the walls to resemble global views.
The underground house, which reflects the lifestyle and concerns of its creator, features five bedrooms and six bathrooms. Jerry Henderson designed the bunker not just for survival, but also for comfort and entertainment. The amenities include a swimming pool, two hot tubs, a dance floor complete with a pole, a four-hole putting green, a bar, a barbecue area, and a sauna. It’s clear that Jerry intended to maintain his lavish lifestyle even in the face of a doomsday scenario.
The house is fully air-conditioned and equipped with a 1,000-gallon water tank, ensuring a self-sustained living environment. Remarkably, the bunker also has cell phone reception, cable, and internet access, making it a fully connected underground haven. Jerry Henderson and his wife, Mary, lived in this unique residence for five years until his passing in 1983.
“This is a nuclear fallout shelter like no other,” says Alastair Philip Wiper, whose photographs capture the bizarre yet captivating essence of the bunker. The residence is currently owned by the Church of Perpetual Life, an organization dedicated to extending human life and exploring cryogenics to potentially bring people back to life when science allows.
For those intrigued by this fascinating piece of architecture, Alastair Philip Wiper’s photographic journey offers a rare glimpse into a world designed for both survival and opulence. The images not only showcase the bunker’s elaborate design but also hint at the mindset of its creator, who was determined to enjoy life, come what may.
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