Photographer Alastair Philip Wiper shares a glimpse into the lavish underground bunker built by eccentric millionaire in 1978, as captured in his stunning photos for Saatolog readers.
If you were a multimillionaire, would you ever think of building a kitschy nuclear bunker? Girard Brown (Jerry) Henderson certainly did! In his 1,400 m² subterranean home, he redefined the idea of shelter with features like artificial trees, fake rocks, lighting that mimics the changing hours of the day, and decor that mirrors the landscapes from his other homes across the globe. But that’s just the start—this quirky space also boasts a swimming pool, two hot tubs, a pole dance stage, a four-hole golf course, a bar, barbecue area, and sauna.
Henderson and his wife Mary lived in “The Underground House, Las Vegas” for five years, until his passing in 1983. This eccentric dwelling is also a key piece of Wiper’s ongoing project, ‘How We Learned to Stop Worrying,’ which explores the diverse architectural interpretations of the word “nuclear.” Let’s dive into Wiper’s insights on this fascinating project and the kitsch charm of Henderson’s unique bunker.
You chose to photograph this shelter as part of the “How We Learned to Stop Worrying” project. What drew you to it the most?
I had never encountered a bunker like this before! It felt like something straight out of a movie, and I was immediately captivated by its eccentricity. I wanted to dig deeper, to actually experience what it would be like to be there and imagine living in such a space. It stood out in sharp contrast to other bunkers I had come across…
What do you think inspired Henderson to create such a refuge? In times of peace, what might have led him to spend the last five years of his life in this underground bunker?
Jerry was a firm believer in underground living—not just as a disaster precaution, but also as a lifestyle choice during peaceful times. He built several similar underground homes and even tried to launch a business promoting the idea, though I don’t think it caught on. As for his motivation, I can’t say for certain why he thought it was such a great idea, but one thing’s clear: this was no hideaway for a reclusive hermit. It was built for socializing and having a good time!
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Which aspect of this bunker impressed you the most?
The idea of living here while the world burns above. I kept thinking about how long someone could stay underground, pretending everything was normal, before things would inevitably start to unravel—like a scene straight out of a movie.
What do you think of the 1970s decorating style?
I love it. It’s extravagant, bold, and eccentric—everything that makes it stand out. What I admire most is that Henderson didn’t just want to build an ordinary underground house; he was going for an underground playboy mansion vibe.
Do you think Wes Anderson, the famous director known for his eccentric style, would consider shooting a movie in this bunker?
This place definitely suits his aesthetic! (Laughs) But I imagine Wes Anderson would rather create his own version of the house, with his distinct artistic twist, than use the existing bunker.
You can find all the photos of The Underground House, Las Vegas in Alastair Philip Wiper’s latest book, Building Stories, his website alastairphilipwiper.com and IG account.
Alastair Philip Wiper
British photographer Alastair Philip Wiper (b. Hamburg, 1980), currently based in Copenhagen, is internationally renowned for his captivating work in the realms of industry, science, and architecture. His photography is marked by a keen eye for symmetry, color, and contrast, often infused with a touch of dark humor. Wiper’s images delve into the machines, technology, and infrastructure that shape our world, reflecting humanity’s needs, desires, dreams, and questions about the universe.
His work regularly features in top-tier publications such as Wired, Vice, Scientific American, and The Guardian, alongside commercial collaborations with global brands like Google and Nike. His prints are held in prestigious collections, including the Design Museum in London, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), and Bank Vontobel in Zurich. Alastair is also the author of several acclaimed books, including Building Stories (Danish Architectural Press, 2023), Unintended Beauty (Hatje Cantz, 2020), and The Art of Impossible (Thames & Hudson, 2015). His solo exhibitions have been showcased in renowned venues like the Royal Institute of British Architects in London and the Museum of Decorative Arts and Design (MADD) in Bordeaux.
Girard B. Henderson
Girard B. Henderson (February 25, 1905 – November 16, 1983) was an American businessman and philanthropist, best known for his roles as a director at Avon Products and founder of the Alexander Dawson Schools. Author Donald Porter described him as “a short, tough-talking millionaire.” A true enthusiast of technology, education, and innovation, Henderson made a name for himself as a visionary entrepreneur.
Henderson was the majority stakeholder in a company called Underground World Homes. In 1964, he sponsored the Underground World Home exhibit at the New York World’s Fair, along with an exhibit titled “Why Live Underground?” His passion for subterranean living was fueled by Cold War-era fears of nuclear war, which led him to build and reside in underground homes in Colorado and Las Vegas, Nevada.
In 1978, architect Jay Swayze designed and constructed an expansive underground house for Henderson in Las Vegas, complete with a swimming pool and a golf course, all set against pastel-colored murals. After Henderson’s passing in 1983, the property was sold in 1990 for $1.3 million, and again in 2005 for $2 million.
