Hidden tunnels and secret passages aren’t just for the movies. Historically, these secret ways have been used for illegal activities (both good and bad). Now, secret rooms and passages are one of the hottest design trends in the home building industry.
But what are they used for, anyway?
This article aims to show the practical uses for these passageways as well as how to make them “secret”.
Places a Secret Passage Could Lead
There are stories of passages to nowhere, but it wouldn’t make sense to spend the money to have one put in your home. If you’re having trouble, we’ve put together some common uses to get your mind headed in the right direction.
A Safe Room
Bigger houses and larger families may use secret passages to head to a family safe room.
For example a crawl space in bedrooms that lead to a panic room. In the event of trouble, a break in, poor weather or other emergency — everyone has a way to the safest place in the house.
A Hidden Exit
Similar to having a hidden path to a panic room, your passage could lead outside of the house.
A couple of options include, a simple exit on the side of the home or some distant away from the residence. If you want the passage to be away from the home, make sure you own the property.
In either case, you’ll want to make sure that the exit doesn’t allow for people or animals to get into the house. You could have it be a one way tunnel. Or put in another secret door and have a two-way passage.
Storage for Valuables (or Fun)
Perhaps the most exuberant use for a secret passage is one leading to a secret vault full of your valuables and memorabilia.
Typically, this isn’t for security but entertainment and conversation. Here are a few examples:
- A “secret” hallway that leads to your in-home movie theater.
- The path takes guests to a bar or entertainment area.
- Maybe you have an actual smuggling compartment in your Star Wars replica room.
Places to Put the Entrance to Your Secret Passage
Have your passage laid out? In order to keep it a secret, the entrance needs hiding too!
- Behind a Fireplace: A mock fireplace is a great entrance to a secret passage for entertainment purposes. Guests can see the whole thing come off the wall before they head for an evening of fun.
- Under the Stairs: This one is a bit more difficult. You’ll have to use some serious carpentry skills and put several steps (enough to create an entrance) on some good hinges in order to create a door that lifts up and leads to your passage.
- Behind a Bookcase or Dresser: A more “traditional” approach is to use a bookcase or piece of furniture. Ideal for bedrooms to safe rooms.