Why is living in a house underground gaining popularity? Is it just a fad that will eventually subside? Whether you’re one of those people who are pro for living underground or simply those who are curious about strange houses there is no denying the happiness, contentment and especially the security felt by those who have accomplished their dream of having their own house especially one that’s underground. Underground house owners have really put to heart the phrase “Sheltered by the Earth “. You might ask “what are the reasons that drive people into owning underground houses” besides being different.
- Minimal exterior maintenance. This is especially true if your type of underground house is the kind that is built into solid and sturdy rock formations. A graphite hill perhaps or a limestone formation. Now these houses are fortified further by incorporating steel into the framework of the house. No need to maintain the houses exteriors as these types of houses are immune to the usual wear and tear a regular house is exposed to.
- Greater resistance to the natural elements. Houses underground provides little to no wind resistance as they are underground and only a small portion would be exposed to harsh winds and even if it were exposed the solid material are more than enough to withstand even the strongest winds. What about a violent storm? Easy, especially if the location is a sturdy rock formation like mentioned above. These formations have seen the going and passing of a number of storms and still stands. Also underground houses rarely catch fire.
- Environmental. The number of trees cut down yearly for the construction of regular houses is staggering more so on Asian countries that have relied on wood for shelter for centuries. Design wise, an underground house would also incorporate into the environment seamlessly. It would not be a hindrance to the natural beauty of your surroundings and provide minimal impact to the surrounding wildlife.
- Efficient use of land. Imagine a house underground with nothing but a beautiful garden on top that would be nice huh? Economical too if you happen to be vegetable gardener. Need tomatoes? Just pick it upstairs.
It really is more of a combination of these reasons that convinces people to own an underground house. Maybe for some it is simply a matter of fulfilling a childhood dream and having a bat cave like batman. No matter the reason, living in underground houses really has its edge over regular houses.
must be a unique experience to live in a house like this:
Chris 73/Wikimedia Commons