Housing Operation Architects Co., Ltd. (HOP), a company specializing in high-end custom homes across Japan, recently celebrated its 25th anniversary by renovating the HOP Concept House. One of the house’s standout features is the “underground nuclear shelter” directly connected to the residence, a rare feature nationwide. As a result, HOP has created a unique and comfortable space that serves as a “safe haven” from disasters and as an “underground room” for everyday use, similar to those popular in Europe, the United States, and South Korea.
On April 21st (Friday), HOP held a grand opening event to showcase their new proposals for housing and the nuclear shelter’s specifications and comfort, which can also function as a wine cellar during ordinary times.
Features of HOP Underground Buried Nuclear Shelter
HOP has partnered with Anchor Housing in Kawasaki City to commercialize underground basement-type nuclear shelters connected to residences. These shelters can be installed during construction or as a retrofit using existing residential gardens or parking spaces. Various plans can accommodate installation locations and rooms by connecting the shelter bodies to secure a large area. After installation, the garden or parking space can be restored.
The shelter body is domestically produced with a robust steel plate structure that has a durability of over 100 years. It is buried at least 4 meters deep and covered with about 2 meters of soil to mitigate external shocks during emergencies. In addition, ship welding technology enhances confidentiality and prevents external air and radiation intrusion.
The shelter has an air purification system that removes radiation. Clean air is supplied inside the shelter after purifying outdoor air, even during a power outage.
A bio-toilet is installed to decompose and process excrement using microorganisms, considering long-term evacuation life. In addition, safe groundwater is supplied for drinking, eliminating the need to stock water inside the shelter.
The shelter is directly connected to the residence and can be used as a basement in daily life. A dedicated staircase from the living space allows for safe and quick access to the shelter without going outside. In addition, the underground space’s constant temperature and high sound insulation properties can be utilized daily for a wine cellar, food storage room, theater room, etc.
The shelter is equipped with a reliable power supply during power outages, including solar panels and batteries. Typically, household power is used, and energy is supplied from solar panels during power outages. It also has a backup power supply in the form of a battery.
If the information and communication network is disrupted, a satellite phone is installed inside the shelter to enable communication. WiFi can also be used, and external monitoring cameras are installed to monitor the outside from inside the shelter, enabling communication during emergencies.
[Inquiries]Housing Operation Architects Co., Ltd. (HOP Sapporo)
