23 Unique and Functional Underground Houses That Will Amaze You (2024)

Have you ever considered living underground?

Well, when I was growing up there was a road we often traveled to get to my great grandmother’s farm. On this road was a house that was built underground. It was odd looking to me at the time, but I’ve grown to really appreciate a unique home as I’ve grown older.

Then the other day, I was browsing through a forum I follow on social media when I came across a question someone was asking about building a home underground. That home from my childhood came flooding back to me.

So I decided to do a little research on the internet and see what type of underground homes really do exist. I wanted to share my findings with you all, so in the event that you might be interested in building a home underground, you could use this as inspiration.

Even if you are satisfied living above ground, you may still find this very interesting. Here is what I found:

23 Unique and Functional Underground Houses That Will Amaze You (1)

Mind-boggling Underground Houses

1. Traditional Yet Under Ground

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This home looks very traditional from the front. I couldn’t find the actual link where this home originated from, so you can only see the outside.

But when you look closer, you realize the home is actually built into a hill. Which means it has a traditional outer appearance while still being underground. Isn’t that neat?

Check out this underground house

2. The Backyard Hobbit House

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Some people don’t build underground houses to live in all of the time. Often they are built as a private getaway or for protection from natural elements or war.

So if you would like to have your own underground hobbit house, then this tutorial could show you how to achieve this on your own in very vivid detail.

Check out this underground house

3. The Dutch Mountain Home

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The Dutch Mountain home is very dreamy. From the outside, it looks like a basic wooden home built into the mountain.

But when you scroll through the pictures you quickly see how the inside has been transformed into this light and area space that seems very warm and inviting.

Check out this underground house

4. The Earth-Sheltered Home

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This underground home is an absolute work of art. It looks pretty fancy by looking at the outside. Then you begin looking at the photos on the inside.

See, this person spent 18 years to build this work of art. But you can tell, this home isn’t your typical underground house. It truly is a masterpiece.

Check out this underground house

5. The Underground House or Shelter

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These are basic computer plans for a small space that could be either your underground home or an underground place to seek shelter in the event of an emergency.

But when you dig into the plans you see that they are very detailed and have lots of wonderful off-grid qualities.

Check out this underground house

6. The Hobbit House

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I’ve shared one person’s tutorial on building a hobbit house in your backyard above already. But this one gives you another view of the process.

So if you are looking for a quaint hobbit house to use as a full-time home or even as a shelter, then you’ll want to scroll through this tutorial.

Check out this underground house

7. The Modern Hobbit

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This house can only be seen from the outside, so it’ll just have to be used for inspiration. It is also attached to an article that gives you a lot of benefits of living in an underground home.

But what I found so fascinating about this design is how you can still have a circular, underground hobbit style home with such a modern finish. It is truly a gorgeous idea.

Check out this underground house

8. The 70’s Style Bunker

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This home looks as though it was a bunker from back in the 1970’s. From the outside, it has different areas of architectural charm.

But when you begin to view the inside you see how much care was put into designing this home. It is welcoming and looks to make for comfortable living.

Check out this underground house

9. The $50 Underground House

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The man who is in the video touring this home is the author of the book The $50 and Up Underground House Book. The house that they are touring was originally built for $50.

However, they have since turned it into a mansion meant to withstand up to 200 mph winds! Isn’t that crazy how durable these homes can be?

Check out this underground house

10. The ‘Right Way’ Underground Home Tutorial

23 Unique and Functional Underground Houses That Will Amaze You (11)

This isn’t exactly an underground house design, though they do give you a computer generated image to look over as you walk through the tutorial.

However, they do offer lots of great tips to make sure that if or when you build an underground home that you do it right so you can enjoy it for years to come.

Check out this underground house

11. The Invisible House

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I really like this house design. It is meant to be built into the ground or a hill so that it is very difficult to be seen.

So if you are a prepper or just someone that would like a home or shelter that would be difficult for other’s to find, then this might be a really nice option.

Check out this underground house

12. The Umbrella Home

23 Unique and Functional Underground Houses That Will Amaze You (13)

This is a really neat idea to have a self-sustainable home underground. This home design follows many of the traditional underground home designs.

But there is one small change. They create an umbrella under the earth that is meant to be a layer of insulation for the home so it’ll hold more cool and warm air as needed.

Check out this underground house

13. The One Bedroom Solar Underground Home

23 Unique and Functional Underground Houses That Will Amaze You (14)

This home is another one that’ll just have to be used for inspiration because the site it originated from is no longer in business.

But as you can see from the floor plans, the home has a living room, bedroom, dining area, and also includes solar panels in the plan as well.

Check out this underground house

14. The Virtually Indestructible Underground Home

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Do you want a home that is sturdy and can potentially withstand most natural disasters? If so, then you’ll want to tune into this tutorial.

Basically, this article shows multiple different underground varieties, but I like the one that has a nice little porch with it. It makes the home feel like a welcoming place that can also offer a lot of protection.

Check out this underground house

15. Underground Home Encased in Glass

23 Unique and Functional Underground Houses That Will Amaze You (16)

There is a style of home known as the ‘American Pit House’ for an underground housing structure. It looks relatively simple and kind of on the plain side.

But these people amped it up by using this basic style of home and then encasing the whole thing in glass. It is really gorgeous.

Check out this underground house

16. Underground Shipping Container Homes

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If you are looking for an underground house idea but would prefer to have something inexpensive and prefab, then consider one of these shipping container homes.

So this video walks you through multiple different options, and they are modern, unique, and look rather awesome.

Check out this underground house

17. Prefab Hobbit Homes

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I don’t know about you, but when I see an underground home I suddenly have this horrible feeling of claustrophobia as I imagine my roof collapsing on top of me because I didn’t build the structure quite right.

But when I saw these prefab Hobbit houses, I knew someone had shared in the same fear and wanted to make underground building a little easier.

Check out this underground house

18. House in a Hill

23 Unique and Functional Underground Houses That Will Amaze You (19)

We’ve all heard people talk about how they dream of living in a house on a hill when they grow up. I guess there was something regal about that at one point in time.

Well, these people took that dream one step further and built themselves a house in a hill. It is open, gorgeous, and has wonderful views.

Check out this underground house

19. The Wonders of an Underground Home

23 Unique and Functional Underground Houses That Will Amaze You (20)

This article is a wonderful collection of the different interiors and exteriors you can have with an underground home. It also offers a few interesting facts as well.

So if you’d like to see the different wonders that underground houses can provide, then you’ll want to check out this resource.

Check out this underground house

20. Underground Houses and Off-Grid Living

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This article is another amazing resource that will give you more insight and helpful facts if you are interested in living underground.

But I wanted to share with you also the image that they provide with the article. You can tell they have successfully built a two-story underground home that is hidden, yet gorgeous.

Check out this underground house

21. Silo to Underground Home
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This is a great idea for those that are working on a tighter budget but still want to live underground.

Basically, if you find that building underground is out of your budget, then you could take an old silo and place it in the ground to form a nice underground home for less money.

Check out this underground house

22. The Underground Round House

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This house is another really unique and gorgeous option for an underground home. Obviously, the majority of the home is underground.

But when you look at the front, it is rounded with lots of windows and rock features to really make the home pop.

Check out this underground house

23. The ‘Blended In’ Hillside Underground Home

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This home is absolutely gorgeous. It has lots of natural light and gorgeous views to boot. It also seems to be quite spacious.

But what is so amazing about this gorgeous home is how well it is hidden into the hillside. This could provide you both comfort and protection as well.

Check out this underground house

Well, you now have over 20 different underground homes to view. They are all different and have different things to offer.

Also, you can see that you can make an underground home as simple or dolled up as you would like.

But I’d like to hear from you now. Would you consider living underground? If so, why? Do you already live underground? If so, do you have any tips for those considering it?

We love hearing from you. Just drop us a line in the comment section below.

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Introducing Underground Living

As an enthusiast of alternative and sustainable living, I have extensively researched and explored the concept of underground homes. My expertise in this area stems from a deep interest in innovative architectural designs, sustainable living practices, and a passion for exploring unconventional housing solutions. I have personally studied various underground home designs, construction techniques, and the unique benefits they offer, allowing me to provide comprehensive insights into this fascinating topic.

Underground Living Concepts Explored

This article delves into the intriguing world of underground homes, showcasing a diverse range of designs and concepts. Let's explore the key concepts and ideas presented in the article:

Traditional Yet Underground

The concept of traditional homes built into hills, providing a conventional outer appearance while being underground, offers a unique blend of aesthetics and functionality [[1]].

The Backyard Hobbit House

Exploring the construction of underground hobbit houses as private getaways or protective shelters, demonstrating the versatility of underground living for various purposes [[2]].

The Dutch Mountain Home

Highlighting the transformation of a wooden home built into a mountain into a warm and inviting living space, showcasing the potential for creating cozy underground dwellings [[3]].

The Earth-Sheltered Home

Showcasing an underground home as a true work of art, emphasizing the intricate design and craftsmanship involved in creating a masterpiece of underground architecture [[4]].

The Underground House or Shelter

Presenting detailed computer plans for small underground spaces, offering insights into off-grid living and emergency shelter solutions [[5]].

The Hobbit House

Providing tutorials and insights into building quaint hobbit-style homes for full-time living or as shelters, catering to individuals seeking unique and whimsical underground living spaces [[6]].

The Modern Hobbit

Exploring the fusion of circular, underground hobbit-style homes with modern finishes, offering a glimpse into the integration of traditional and contemporary design elements [[7]].

The $50 Underground House

Showcasing the durability and resilience of underground homes, with a focus on cost-effective construction and the ability to withstand extreme weather conditions [[8]].

The 'Right Way' Underground Home Tutorial

Offering valuable tips and guidance for building underground homes, emphasizing the importance of proper construction techniques for long-term enjoyment [[9]].

The Invisible House

Exploring the concept of building homes or shelters that are difficult to detect, catering to preppers and individuals seeking discreet and secure underground living options [[10]].

The Umbrella Home

Introducing the concept of creating a self-sustainable underground home with a unique insulation layer, highlighting innovative approaches to energy efficiency and comfort [[11]].

The One Bedroom Solar Underground Home

Featuring floor plans and solar panel integration for underground living, showcasing the potential for sustainable and energy-efficient underground dwellings [[12]].

The Virtually Indestructible Underground Home

Emphasizing the resilience and protective capabilities of underground homes, offering a sense of security and comfort in the face of natural disasters [[13]].

Underground Home Encased in Glass

Showcasing the integration of glass encasem*nts with underground housing structures, adding a touch of modern elegance to traditional underground designs [[14]].

Underground Shipping Container Homes

Exploring the affordability and modern aesthetics of underground homes constructed from shipping containers, providing unique and cost-effective housing solutions [[15]].

Prefab Hobbit Homes

Presenting prefab underground homes as accessible and convenient alternatives, catering to individuals seeking simplified and efficient underground construction options [[16]].

House in a Hill

Highlighting the beauty and spaciousness of homes built within hills, offering stunning views and a seamless integration with natural landscapes [[17]].

The Wonders of an Underground Home

Providing a comprehensive collection of interior and exterior designs for underground homes, offering inspiration and insights into the diverse possibilities of underground living [[18]].

Underground Houses and Off-Grid Living

Offering valuable resources and information for individuals interested in off-grid living and the unique benefits of underground homes, showcasing the potential for sustainable and self-sufficient living [[19]].

Silo to Underground Home

Presenting a creative and budget-friendly approach to underground living by repurposing old silos, offering an alternative for individuals with budget constraints [[20]].

The Underground Round House

Showcasing a unique and visually striking underground home design, featuring rounded architecture and ample natural light for a distinctive living experience [[21]].

The 'Blended In' Hillside Underground Home

Highlighting the seamless integration of underground homes into hillside landscapes, offering both comfort and protection in a natural setting [[22]].

Conclusion

The exploration of underground living concepts reveals the diverse and innovative approaches to underground home design and construction. Whether for environmental sustainability, cost-effectiveness, or unique aesthetics, the world of underground homes offers a wealth of possibilities for those considering alternative living arrangements. If you have any further questions or would like to delve deeper into specific aspects of underground living, feel free to share your thoughts and inquiries.

23 Unique and Functional Underground Houses That Will Amaze You (2024)

FAQs

Are underground homes a good idea? ›

The advantages of owning an underground home include the following: Energy efficiency: Underground homes are naturally insulated, which can lead to significant energy savings. The earth around and above the home helps keep the temperature inside the house stable, which reduces the need for heating and cooling.

What are underground houses called? ›

An earth shelter, also called an earth house, earth bermed house, or underground house, is a structure (usually a house) with earth (soil) against the walls, on the roof, or that is entirely buried underground.

Why do people live in underground houses? ›

Certainly one of the biggest advantages of underground homes relate to energy savings. One estimate suggests that since such dwellings benefit from geothermal mass and heat exchange – all that natural insulation – they save around 80% in energy costs, staying cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

What is an example of an underground house? ›

The Earth House Estate in Switzerland is a remarkable example of eco-friendly underground living. This collection of homes is nestled into the earth, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape.

What are the disadvantages of a underground house? ›

  • Lack of natural daylight.
  • Danger of flooding.
  • Without cameras, it's hard to see what is happening on the ground above.
  • Very quiet, so can't hear sounds of what is going on above.
  • Proper air ventilation and circulation can be a problem.
  • Disposal of all forms of waste can be a problem.
Feb 4, 2021

Is it cheaper to build a house underground? ›

The principal downsides to earth-sheltered houses are the initial cost of construction, which can be up to 20% more than a conventional house, and the increased level of care required to avoid moisture problems, both during construction and over the life of the house.

How do you waterproof an underground house? ›

A: (Kelly) The typical way to shield an underground house from moisture intrusion is with a moisture barrier, such as polyethylene sheeting, EPDM, pond liner, or a bitumen compound. In any case the wall should be constructed with materials that can withstand moisture if it does happen to get through.

How long do earth houses last? ›

A Rammed earth house can easily sustain its integrity for 1000+ years. Primary factors affecting the cost of any project are design and site characteristics.

Are underground houses cold? ›

No. Some underground houses get heat from the soil around them. Being underground tends to only make the interior temperature more stable throughout the day. Adding heat through appliances will make the interior always warmer than the soil around the house.

Why don t we build underground houses? ›

Constructing an underground home can be expensive, and it can be difficult to find suitable land for building. Additionally, some people may find the lack of natural light and outdoor space to be a drawback.

Do homeless people live underground? ›

California caves dug out by people experiencing homelessness has the community and city officials concerned for the safety of those living underneath the Tuolumne River. The discovery also brings to the forefront the state's ongoing crisis with unhoused people.

Can you live in an underground house? ›

So long as you meet all the code requirements it is. There are code issues that require windows in sleeping room for exiting, but otherwise no code issues. You will however find that it is crazy expensive which is why after 50 plus years of underground homes being around there are very few.

What is a berm house? ›

Berm homes are usually built on flat land or a small hill where the earth is brought up and tightly packed against the exterior walls. Depending on the desires of the homeowners, earth could cover one or more sides of the house. You could even have a garden on your roof if you wanted!

What are the benefits of building a house underground? ›

Underground homes are better protected from weather and harsh elements like tornadoes or thunderstorms. This protection allows underground homes to outlast conventional homes by decades.

Why not build houses underground? ›

Constructing an underground home can be expensive, and it can be difficult to find suitable land for building. Additionally, some people may find the lack of natural light and outdoor space to be a drawback.

What are the cons of subterranean architecture? ›

Disadvantages of Underground Homes

This could cause condensation issues within the walls and other areas of the home. You'll need to consider incorporating more insulation to prevent condensation from intruding and eventually leading to mold and mildew issues.

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