Couple Transforms WWII Bomb Shelter Into Glitzy Bar During £780,000 Home Renovation

A couple undertaking a significant renovation of their 1930s former bed and breakfast in Canterbury has converted a World War II bomb shelter discovered in their garden into a sophisticated bar. The total cost of the project, which included a two-story extension and the restoration of the underground relic, reached £780,000.

KJ and Mike, featured on Channel 4's "Extraordinary Extensions," found the historic structure while extending their property. "We came across a little opening, and we kept digging," Mike recounted. "And then we found this entire thing."

The bomb shelter, accessed via a hatch in a newly constructed outhouse that also serves as an office and gym, has been transformed into a "hidden bar." Despite challenges such as lead paint and water ingress, which necessitate easily movable furniture, the space now features red and pink walls and a printed carpet to create a welcoming atmosphere.

Canterbury experienced heavy bombing during World War II, with historical records indicating significant shelter capacity in the area. The couple's renovation also updated the main house, blending Norwegian and Korean interior design elements with Scandinavian cladding against original brickwork and installing modern features like floor-to-ceiling windows and integrated smart technology.

The extension now includes an open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area opening onto a terrace, as well as a new master bedroom. The project's budget of £700,000 was exceeded by approximately £80,000, partly due to unexpected roof repairs costing £25,000.

In a separate case from last year, another couple on Guernsey discovered a World War II Nazi bunker under their home. After excavating their garden, they found a staircase leading to two rooms and a hallway, with German inscriptions on the walls. They transformed this bunker into a games room and gym.