lasovsky johansson architects revives WWII bunkers along czech border

Lasovsky Johansson Architects proposes bunker v37

Lasovsky Johansson Architects’ Bunker V37 transforms a network of abandoned military bunkers along the former territory of Czechoslovakia into useable and liveable spaces for the community. Breathing new life into these historic Řopík structures built before WWII, the architects have interwoven their distinctive soft contours and ‘ears’ designed to ward off intruders into the fabric of the natural Czech and Slovakian landscapes. Nestled amidst mountains, rivers, lakes, and fields, the bunkers revive regional and national hiking routes, weaving into pathways and serving as overnight cabins, mountain retreats, information hubs, activity centers, meeting spaces, and more.

all images courtesy of Studio-Sang

from military architecture to intimate residences

The Řopík bunker is forged from high-quality reinforced concrete with very few openings and walls up to 1.2 meters thick. With a total footprint of 25 square meters, the interior is confined to a mere 8.5 square meters. These dimly lit and cramped spaces were originally designed for military purposes and offered little potential for alternative use. Contrary to making a new addition to the exterior of the bunker, Lasovsky Johansson Architects’ proposal maintains the structure’s form and integrity, intervening to cut horizontally and lifting the upper part to enlarge the interior space and infiltrate natural light.

The raised bunker reveals a distinctive floor plan, increasing the usable area up to 24 square meters and creating a continuous bench from the thick concrete walls. The void left from lifting the upper portion is bridged with glass, offering panoramic vistas of the encompassing landscape. Additionally, the ceiling height is increased which creates space a sleeping loft or additional storage. The core support remains untouched, with the central load-bearing walls continuing to support the upper section.

‘The aim of this study is to draw attention to the unused potential of these bunkers by proposing a transformation and future use while preserving the bunkers’ interesting form. By connecting bunkers through a path an educational trail with a historical overlap is created, a nation-wide hiking track going through the beautiful surroundings of the Czech countryside,’ notes the design team.

transforming a network of abandoned military bunkers into liveable spaces for the community