They continue: “Unlike other similar structures, we do not imitate external windows but instead create a sense of natural light penetration into the interior through carefully designed apertures, louvers, or ceilings. This builds the atmosphere of morning, afternoon, evening, or night, stimulating the intensity and color of light.”

Striking to look at, Scorpio House has sought to reassess the way society views shelters: “The uniqueness of our solution lies in redefining a shelter as an investment intended not just for times of threat,” say BXB.

Named after the scorpion—the largest creature on earth capable of surviving a nuclear attack—the project is described as “a luxury item that can delight us daily, much like a sports car or a family yacht.”

“Just as utilitarian ships used for transport evolved into a separate category of luxury product, we have elevated the utilitarian nuclear bunker to the level of a luxurious space where we can pursue our passions and dreams,” say BXB.

Accepting the award, BXB founder Bogusław Barnaś said: “This award is important to us because Scorpio House touches on a significant social issue. We are changing the emotional character of this type of architecture, which tends to have a negative connotation.”

While recognizing Scorpio House as a luxury indulgence, Barnaś expressed hopes that his design would inspire others to build shelters: “Scorpio House completely reverses the idea of shelters and even builds a fashion for having them.”

“This in turn will contribute to grassroots activities in the form of private investments in such facilities, which will significantly increase the security of the social fabric in our country in the event of crisis situations, not only an armed attack but also extreme weather phenomena or pandemics.”