Calling all Hobbit or Lord of the Rings fans, this is the underground home of your dreams! Nestled (literally) in the village of Holme in England—22 miles from Manchester—this unconventional residence is an example of “earth sheltering,” or using earth to help construct the walls of a house. Architect Arthur Quarmby designed the underground home for his family, which has occupied the space for the past 41 years. To ensure plenty of natural light, Quarmby built the residence with a south-facing position, and the home has breathtaking views of its Peak District surroundings.
Popular among eco-friendly homeowners, earth-sheltered homes are less susceptible than typical houses to extreme temperatures, and require less maintenance. Often soundproof, they’re designed to seamlessly blend into the landscape and offer protection from natural disasters like tornadoes and hailstorms.
Luscious foliage surround the entrances to the subterranean oasis, which is set on a beautifully manicured acre. Inside, the 4,000-square-foot residence offers a circular swimming pool, a music room featuring 12 sliding glass doors, and a cave/sitting area with natural stone walls and an open peat fireplace. There are also four bedrooms, as well as a playroom and a study, making this the perfect subsurface home for any family.
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